The Special Investigation Unit (SIU) ”will soon start analysing and investigating” a mass of files confiscated from the Upington prison, as part of its investigation into corruption and fraud in prisons.
The files were seized earlier this week. SIU representative Gerhard Visagie said on Wednesday a team of lawyers, investigators, analysts and accountants had started their work in the Northern Cape this week.
The unit is currently at the Kimberley prison.
”We have received numerous confidential complaints already, and are now inviting prisoners, warders and the public to come forward with information about corruption and fraud,” Visagi said.
The SIU was tasked by President Thabo Mbeki in August last year to probe, among other things, maladministration of prisons, improper or unlawful conduct by correctional services officials, and unlawful appropriation or expenditure of public money or property.
Visagie said the SIU was working closely with the Jali Commission, which is investigating allegations of corruption in South Africa’s prisons. – Sapa