The Department of Correctional Services says order has been restored at Boksburg Prison after inmates barricaded a section gate during a search operation at the facility.
It is understood that the unruly inmates blocked the gate of the section in retaliation for the mandatory search operation by the National Task Force as part of the Festive Season Security Operation.
Chaos
Chaos broke out at the facility as officials clashed with inmates over a search operation aimed at seizing illegal cellphones and other contraband.
In a statement, the spokesperson for the Department of Corrections, Singabakho Nxumalo, said they have launched an investigation into the incident.
“The department will not hesitate to act diligently to ensure that there is no dereliction of the core mandate of corrections. Prisoners who attempt to undermine the authority of the state know the consequences and the department will not compromise the safety and security of prisoners, officers, community members and other service providers.
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Smuggling
Nxumalo said the spread of mobile phones and other contraband was a concern and should be removed from prisons.
“Some of the pictures circulating through social media are from inmates, making a mockery of the correctional system. This is a clear indication that some unscrupulous inmates are trying to avoid the search exercise – knowing full well that they are hiding contraband in their cells.
Penalty
He vowed there would be swift punishment for defiant inmates.
“The perpetrators have identified themselves through social media platforms and their actions will help with the disciplinary process.”
“We will not tolerate the undermining of the Correctional Services Act by unscrupulous inmates who continue to terrorize communities and officials through their criminal conduct despite being in lawful custody,” he said.
The department said a full-scale investigation would be launched and Festive Season Security Operations would continue as scheduled.
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