Pretoria – The number of inmates escaping from South Africa’s correctional centres has dropped significantly in the last 20 years, says Deputy Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Thabang Makwetla.
“This is not a small achievement. It talks to the commitment of our correctional officials executing their duty,” the Deputy Minister said.
Speaking on Tuesday at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre, he praised the department for the constant reduction in the number of escapes at the country’s 243 correctional centres, from 1 244 per annum in 1995 to 49 in the 2014/15 financial year.
The department’s annual report shows that 49 escapes were reported during the 2014/15 financial year, compared to 60 in the previous year.
Of the 0.031 percent of escapes last year, the majority were re-arrested and are back behind bars.
The department is currently running its Operation Vala campaign which sees security tightened at all correctional facilities and more limitations on offender movement. The campaign started on 25 November and will run until 14 January 2016.
On Tuesday, hundreds of awaiting-trial detainees were searched in the Johannesburg Correctional Centre.
Bags of dagga, makeshift screwdrivers, daggers, spoons, cellphones, chargers, kettle elements, plugs and home-made gym equipment were confiscated.
"The amount of cellphones that we have found in this hour is a huge success, but at the same time, an indication that we must still do more as the department to reduce the problem," Deputy Minister Makwetla said.
He warned corrupt officials that their actions will not be tolerated and called on citizens to report any suspicious activity immediately, as corrections is a societal responsibility.
The department said during December and January holiday period some inmates are desperate to escape for various reasons, which include to participate in criminal activities or to be with family and friends.
“It is for this reason that special emphasis is placed on security measures in correctional centres, with increased visibility, and involvement, of managers at all levels in the operational activities,” the department said. – SAnews.gov.za
