The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has welcomed the suspension of eight prison officials from the Durban Westville Prison following the murder of an inmate last week.
The Committee heard from the Judicial Inspectorate that an inmate allegedly stabbed two fellow inmates. The prison officials then allegedly tortured and murdered the inmate. “We condemn in the strongest terms the blatant abuse and murder of inmates by officials,” said Mr Vincent Smith, Chairperson of the Committee. He added: “Those that are involved in this atrocious crime must not only be suspended but must face criminal charges as well.”
The Committee wishes to state that inmates in South Africa have a right to dignity. The rights of inmates must also be balanced against the rights of officials. The Committee will consider sending a delegation to the prison to ascertain what took place and not only rely on reports from the department.
For media enquiries or interviews with the Chairperson, please contact:
Kanyisa Ndyondya, Parliamentary Communication Services
Tel: 021 403 8041
Cell: 083 624 0585
E-mail: kndyondya@parliament.gov.za
