Inmates at the Mangaung Correctional Centre in Bloemfontein caught with contraband during a surprise raid are set to face criminal charges, according to Correctional Services National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale.
The raid, part of efforts to eliminate illegal items from the facility, uncovered cash, dagga, USB cables, cellphones, chargers, cigarettes, and tobacco. Thobakgale emphasized that inmates are prohibited from possessing money, as the prison operates a cashless system.
“The items found today highlight security lapses, as these items should not exist in a correctional setting,” said Thobakgale. “We are investigating the root causes and will continue improving our security measures. Offenders are not supposed to have cash; they use cards where funds are loaded. The discovery of dagga and cellphones shows a circulation of banned items, which is unacceptable.”
The operation coincided with the launch of Operation Vala at the nearby Grootvlei Correctional Centre, a festive season campaign aimed at preventing contraband smuggling and prison escapes. The campaign increases security during the holiday period, which typically sees a spike in inmate visitations.
Thobakgale noted that contraband possession could impact inmates’ criminal records and parole eligibility. Despite the concerning findings, he expressed satisfaction with the department’s proactive measures to improve security and accountability within correctional facilities.
Operation Vala has a track record of success in reducing contraband and keeping inmates engaged during the festive season, and authorities are determined to maintain its momentum.