The Department of Correctional Services says it has launched an investigation into an incident that occurred at one of its facilities in the Northern Cape.
Two inmates died following an alleged altercation between prisoners and correctional service officers at Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley on Saturday.
Three inmates suffered serious injuries which led to the death of two, while another inmate is still in hospital.
Department Spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo says the department is investigating.
“The Department of Correctional Services has launched an investigation following the death of two inmates at Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley. It has to be confirmed that three inmates were involved when an official was attacked through the usage of padlocks. Other officials had to respond in a attempt to diffuse the situation and a scuffle started.”
“The three inmates suffered serious injuries. They were transferred to an outside hospital and sadly two of them passed away. The other inmate remains in prison for extended medical care. The matter has been reported to the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Judicial Inspectorate for Judicial Services,” says Nxumalo.
