An inmate has died and four officials were injured when violence erupted in the Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre in the Western Cape.
In a statement, the Department of Correctional Services
(DCS) says the premeditated attack took place on Thursday, a day after a tense
search operation at the facility uncovered contraband, including cell phones
and narcotics.
According to the department, inmates from Room 005 of
A-Section initially refused to comply during Wednesday’s search but were
eventually subdued.
On Thursday morning, those same inmates allegedly launched
a retaliatory attack during unlock procedures. Armed with improvised weapons,
they stabbed four correctional officers, leaving them with injuries to the
face, head, and back.
According to the Department, all have since received
medical attention, and counselling services are being provided to them and
their families.
One of the offenders involved was injured in the
altercation and later died despite receiving medical care.
The National Commissioner of Correctional Services,
Makgothi Thobakgale, condemned the violence.
"The safety of officials and inmates remains our
foremost priority. Incidents of this nature are deeply concerning, and we are
committed to thoroughly investigating all contributing factors."
Authorities have since placed the implicated inmates in
single cells, suspended all visits and activities, and conducted another sweep
of the unit, seizing additional weapons.
The centre is now said to be under control, with
investigations ongoing.
Done By: Mitchum George
Comments