An inmate at Mangaung Correctional Centre was found dead on Sunday after taking his own life, the Department of Correctional Services confirmed.
The department said the inmate had taken his own life by hanging.
ALSO READ: Prison Love Gone Wrong: 20-Year-Old Female Prison Guard Caught Pants Down With Inmate
Inmate Found Dead After Taking His Life At Mangaung Correctional Centre
In a statement, the department confirmed:
“The Department of Correctional Services confirms with regret the death of an inmate who was found to have taken his own life by hanging.”
Authorities are withholding the deceased’s identity until the family is notified. The Office of the National Commissioner has ordered a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
“We appeal for patience and understanding as we ensure that the proper procedures are followed with due respect to the family’s privacy,” the department stated.
Concern Over Prison Conditions
This incident comes amid recent scrutiny of South Africa’s correctional facilities. In October, the department faced allegations of misconduct after a female inmate at Johannesburg Female Correctional Centre died following reports of alleged torture.
The female inmate, whose identity has also not been disclosed, reportedly died weeks after she was allegedly tortured into revealing how a cell phone was smuggled into the prison. During a random raid, officials found contraband, including a cell phone allegedly linked to the inmate.
According to the inmate’s family, prison wardens tortured her to extract information about the cellphone. The Department of Correctional Services has denied these claims.
Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo addressed the allegations at the time, calling them “a lie.” He said:
“She was not feeling well and was transferred to an outside hospital where she sadly passed on. The family can be provided with her medical report and cause of death. The allegations raised are definitely a lie.”
The two incidents have raised questions about oversight and conditions within South Africa’s correctional facilities. While authorities have promised thorough investigations, advocacy groups are calling for greater transparency and accountability.
Follow Us on Google News for Immediate Updates
The post Inmate Found Dead After Taking His Life At Mangaung Correctional Centre appeared first on iHarare News.
