The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has condemned the scuffle between its officials and accused in the Senzo Meyiwa trial which occurred in court on Monday.
The scuffle occurred during an adjournment.
“The National Commissioner…Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, has condemned in the strongest possible terms a scuffle inside court, where the co-accused in the Senzo Meyiwa murder trial attacked a correctional official.
“Such utter disrespect will not be tolerated and the department is looking into the incident. Correctional officials rendering escort and guarding responsibilities do so on behalf of the State. Hence, any form of unbecoming behaviour warrants a security review so as to ensure safety of those in closer proximity to the inmates,” the DCS said.
The department pleaded with those who have challenges while being escorted by officials to refer those to the department.
“If those escorted to court have complaints and issues to raise, they must follow and adhere to established processes and channels within DCS and not resort to undermining security at the court which will not be tolerated in any way whatsoever.
“Failure by the accused persons to behave themselves calls for the Department of Correctional Services to act and it will do so without any form of hesitation,” said the department. – SAnews.gov.za
