Media statement by the Department of Correctional Services delivered by Chief Deputy Commissioner Incarcerations and Corrections – James Smalberger
We are saddened by this tragic incident that happened in Barberton Youth Correctional Centre last night and on behalf of the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Adv. Michael Masutha, MP, Deputy Minister Thabang Makwetla, MP, and Acting National Commissioner Zach Modise, I wish to convey our condolences to the family of the deceased offender who passed on last night during a fire incident. We also wish all those injured a speedy recovery who are at Barberton and Rob Ferreira Hospitals.
We also wish to condemn in the strongest terms the burning of mattresses and linen in our correctional centres.
We have just visited the cell and after observing the damages, we are fortunate that the effect has been limited to one death, one serious injury and a few minor injuries. We appreciate the quick response of local officials, as well as the Emergency Medical Services of Barberton for their professional assistance. In the same vain we wish to state that one death is one too many and therefore every step will be taken to prevent such recurrences in our facilities.
To recap on what we had earlier said, on Saturday 25th of October 2014, around 19:00, 19 offenders that were isolated set a cell alight at Barberton Town Youth Centre. During the incident one offender died at the scene, and the Department has sent a delegation including a social worker to inform his family. The one seriously injured with third degree burns, has been transferred to Rob Ferreira Hospital in Nelspruit where he is receiving appropriate medical attention. The remaining offenders are still receiving medical attention at Barberton Hospital.
The acting National Commissioner Mr. Zack Modise said “this is a terrible incident that we shall investigate thoroughly with the SAPS. We will uncover what caused this and we shall take the necessary steps to prevent a recurrence of this nature.”
SAPS Crime Intelligence team started last night with their investigations. A DCS investigations team from outside of the Barberton Management Area will start with its investigation tomorrow morning.
We wish to extend our apologies for any inconvenience caused by this unfortunate incident. We wish to reiterate our call to all offenders to raise any concerns with the local management, as well as the Judicial Inspectorate of Correctional Services.
The department will ensure that this incident will not impact negatively on the offenders who are writing matric and the department will ensure that students receive the necessary support.
Contact:
Manelisi Wolela
Cell: 076 062 2180
Email: Manelise.Wolela@dcs.gov.za
