Zuko Komisa

- One inmate is dead and several prison officers are injured after a riot at Oudtshoorn Correctional Centre.
- The violence on 7 August followed a cell search where officials confiscated contraband items.
- An investigation is now underway, with the inmates involved facing further disciplinary action.
An investigation is underway at Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre following a violent incident that left one prisoner dead and several correctional officers injured. The confrontation, which occurred on Thursday, 7 August, is believed to be a retaliatory attack by inmates after a cell search the previous day.
According to Singabakho Nxumalo, a spokesperson for the Correctional Services, tensions began to escalate on Wednesday when officers conducted a search operation in a cell within A-Section. The inmates in Room 005 initially resisted the search, but officials eventually managed to seize a number of contraband items, including mobile phones and narcotics.
The situation turned violent the next morning. At approximately 7:55 a.m. on Thursday, inmates from the same cell launched a “premeditated and violent assault” on officers during the daily unlocking procedure. Four officials were reportedly stabbed in the face, head, and back and have received medical attention for their injuries.
One prisoner was also injured during the attack and has since died from his wounds. The inmates allegedly involved in the stabbing now face further disciplinary action.
In response to a violent incident Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has initiated several key interventions.
The offenders involved in the stabbings have been moved to single cells while awaiting disciplinary proceedings.
Additionally, a comprehensive re-search of the A-Unit was conducted, leading to the seizure of more weapons. As a precautionary measure to restore order and ensure the safety of all, the centre has suspended all inmate activities and visits until further notice.
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