The Department of Correctional Services wishes to report that a violent protest by offenders at Kuthama Sinthumule Correctional Centre, a public-private partnership correctional centre in Makhado, has been brought under control with the assistance of the South Africa Police Service (SAPS) this morning.
A small group of offenders in the maximum security facility broke doors and set alight some offices reportedly protesting against water shortage and so called insufficient gratuity for those assisting with teaching other offenders.
The management of Kuthama Sinthumule reports the fire was extinguished and that the water problem facing the rest of Vhembe district is being sorted out in conjunction with Makhado municipality, while the other complaint is receiving attention.
In their preliminary report the management of South African Custodial Management System (SACMS) says it is still assessing the extent of the damage as part of their investigation into the incident. The Department of Correctional Services will also launch its own investigation to establish circumstances surrounding the incident.
Enquiries:
Manelisi Wolela
Cell: 083 626 0304
Issued by: Department of Correctional Services
26 April 2010
