The issue of contraband flowing into South African prisons has been a major concern for correctional services officials. National commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale emphasized the importance of correctional services employees “doing the right thing” to reduce or eliminate the influx of illicit items into the country’s 243 prisons.
In a presentation to parliament’s portfolio committee on correctional services, Thobakgale highlighted the alarming statistics of confiscated contraband in prisons. In the past year, over 41,000 cellphones, nearly 1,000 kilograms of drugs, R200,000 in cash, and 11,000 weapons were seized. The Eastern Cape recorded the highest number of confiscated cellphones, followed by Gauteng and KwaZulu-Natal. Western Cape prisons had the highest number of confiscated “sharpened objects” like knives, while significant amounts of drugs were seized in various regions.
Despite efforts to strengthen surveillance and improve checkpoint inspections, the smuggling of contraband remains a persistent challenge. The department of correctional services has faced difficulties in prosecuting officials caught smuggling due to lack of direct evidence. While some officials have been dismissed or investigated for smuggling, the overall approach to addressing the issue has been criticized as reactive rather than proactive.
Committee members raised concerns about the porous perimeters of correctional centres, with reports of perimeter fencing being cut to facilitate smuggling. The shortage of narcotics dogs and body scanners in facilities has also been highlighted as a deficiency in detecting contraband. Gang and criminal coordination from inside prisons have further complicated the situation, with communication devices becoming lucrative commodities.
Efforts to address the issue include internal charges against prisoners caught with contraband, temporary removal of privileges, reclassification, and transfer to other prisons. Visitors and contractors found with contraband have also faced suspensions, with all cases handed over to the police for further action.
In conclusion, the battle against contraband in South African prisons remains an ongoing challenge that requires a multi-faceted approach. Strengthening surveillance, improving technology and resources, and addressing internal corruption are essential steps in combating the flow of illicit items into correctional facilities.
