The correctional services department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the raid at the Suncity prison was due to the influx of contraband in correctional facilities which he said was a disturbing phenomenon.
Nxumalo said this prompted the National Commissioner to issue a directives due to none adherence to Standard Operating Procedures at centre level.
On Wednesday evening, the Department of Correctional Services conducted a multidisciplinary operation together with the South African Police Services (SAPS) at Johannesburg Prison (Sun City), where inmates at the Medium A Section were searched for weapons, drugs and cellphones.
During the operation, cellphones, money, drugs, and muti were among some of the items recovered.
Sniffer dogs assisted in locating drugs as their barks reverberated through the open courtyard of Medium A Section in prison.
However, speaking with The Star on Thursday, Correctional Services Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo dismissed the report of 7 689 prison warders, who were set to face disciplinary action, saying that was the first time he was hearing of that figure.
“Monitoring Security Plans and enforcement of Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) by means of direct management involvement and supervision.
“There has to be proper searching of inmates allocated to work teams, and these have to be more vigorous in covering all entry and exit points at correctional centres. It is further critical that night visits are increased. Persons that are not scheduled to visit the centre must not be allowed into the facility without appropriate authority,” Nxumalo explained.
He said the department was not prepared to compromise on discipline. Whether the ill-discipline was done by inmates or officials was immaterial, adding that anyone found in the wrong shall face the consequences.
“Code Enforcement Unit has already taken action against 66 officials for theft, fraud, corruption and maladministration. We also have a Departmental Investigation Unit that has finalised 77% of investigations (334/432). To be emphasised, errant officials involved in the smuggling of contraband are not spared any mercy.
“It is essential for the department to intensify surprise, spot and conduct unannounced searches to ensure contraband are prevented or removed from our facilities. Holding individuals found in possession of contraband and their prosecution has to be elevated. The same vigour is to applied to those found throwing illegal items to DCS terrain.”
Nxumalo emphasised that the department’s commitment in maintaining safe and secure correctional facilities was unwavering.
Furthermore, he said the enhancement of security measures were part of the department’s ongoing efforts to protect communities, officials, and the inmates in their facilities.
“Our efforts to curb smuggling and enhance inmate discipline are ongoing, and we will continue to adapt and improve our strategies to meet these challenges effectively,” the spokesperson concluded.
The Star
sipho.jack@inl.co.za