Govt denies death of 29 inmates linked to Aids

Government denies 29 inmates have died from HIV-related illnesses in Westville prison since January

Correctional Services has dismissed claims that 29 inmates have died of Aids-related illnesses at Westville prison since January. The Aids Support Group and the Treatment Action Campaign (TAC) accuse officials of failing to provide ARV treatment to prisoners who need it.

The TAC in KwaZulu-Natal says the deaths are a result of non-compliance with various legislation on HIV infection and Aids in prison. The groups even accuse some prison officials of stealing medication belonging to prisoners. They say overcrowding exacerbates matters.

In June last year, the Durban High Court ruled in favour of 15 prisoners after instituting legal action against the Minister of Correctional services. They were demanding access to ARVs. The government appealed against the decision and talks between the department and the two groups have since collapsed. The Department of Correctional Services says the claims are baseless. It says no complaints have been lodged with it.