Oudtshoorn: Correctional Services National Commissioner, Makgothi Thobakgale, has expressed concern over an incident at the Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre that left one inmate dead and other officials injured.
According to South African Government News Agency, the incident occurred this week during a routine search operation on inmates housed in room 005 of A-Section, where the offenders initially refused to comply. With necessary intervention, officials managed to gain access and continue the search. Tensions rose as some offenders resisted, but officials stabilized the situation and completed the operation. Several contraband items, including cellphones and narcotics, were confiscated.
In what was described as a retaliatory act, on 7 August 2025, offenders from Room 005 launched a premeditated and violent assault on officials during unlock procedures. At the time, 18 officials were on duty, and four sustained injuries, including stab wounds to the face, head, and back. One offender involved in the altercation sustained injuries and, despite receiving medical attention, sadly passed away. The loss of life is under investigation in line with departmental procedures.
National Commissioner Thobakgale reaffirmed the department's commitment to safety within correctional facilities, emphasizing that the safety of officials and inmates remains the foremost priority. Incidents of this nature are deeply concerning, and a thorough investigation into all contributing factors is underway.
The department has assured that the situation at the centre is currently under control. Offenders implicated in the stabbings have been placed in single cells pending disciplinary action. A-Unit has been re-searched, resulting in the confiscation of additional weapons. All offender activities and visits have been suspended until further notice. The Department of Correctional Services remains committed to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of officials and inmates while maintaining order across all its correctional facilities.