The Minister of Justice and Correctional Services, Ronald Lamola, is scheduled to undertake a follow-up visit to the Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Facility on Thursday, August 17, 2023. The purpose of the visit is to assess the progress and efficiency of the facility's mop-up operations and to evaluate the magnitude of the damage incurred.
The Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Facility is a privately owned institution managed by South African Custodial Management. Before the fire outbreak, the facility had a maximum bed capacity of 3,024 inmates classified as high-risk offenders. Consequently, following the fire incident, the facility was forced to transfer its inmates to other correctional institutions. Presently, the centre houses 900 inmates, with preparations underway to accommodate the remaining inmates in other centres.
Minister Lamola's visit will involve a comprehensive assessment of the damaged buildings and a briefing on the anticipated reconstruction costs and the proposed security measures.
This visit is consistent with the government's pledge to provide correctional facilities nationwide with appropriate amenities that support the rehabilitation and reintegration of offenders into society.
Members of the media are invited to the inspection as follows:
Date: Wednesday, August 17 2023
Time: 13h00
Venue: Kutama Sinthumule Facility, Makhado, Limpopo
Media Confirmations
Sechaba Mphahlele - 083 290 9959
Media Enquiries:
Chrispin Phiri
Cell: 081 781 2261
