Order has returned to the privately owned Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre in Makhado, Limpopo, a spokesperson said on Wednesday — this after a strike by prison officials led to the death of a 37-year-old inmate and the injury of another.
South African Custodial Management MD Stephen Korabie said the Department of Correctional Services and the police were called in on Tuesday night to help manage the situation.
Limpopo police spokesperson Superintendent Ailwei Mushavhanamadi said prisoners also went on strike and rubber bullets were fired to stop them running away at 9.45pm.
”Extensive damage was caused to one of the four units of the centre that accommodates approximately 1 152 maximum-category offenders,” said Korabie.
He said plans were being made to find alternative accommodation for about 800 prisoners while the damaged unit was being restored.
Korabie said the Department of Correctional Services had loaned the centre some staff to help provide basic custodial and security functions, pending the settlement of the dispute with the warders. — Sapa