IN PICTURES: Major raid at Kimberley prison sparks zero tolerance warning

THE NATIONAL Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, has warned inmates that it is “not worth it” to keep contraband items in prison.

Items including cellphones, chargers and ropes were confiscated during a surprise raid at Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley on July 31, as part of a nationwide campaign to rid prisons of illicit goods.

Thobakgale, who personally inspected the prison cells, instructed that inmates found with contraband would have their privileges — such as kitchen duties and participation in skills development programmes — revoked.

“One cellphone is one cellphone too many. We aim to have zero contraband goods in prisons,” he said.

“Sentenced offenders may use these devices to intimidate witnesses or plot more crimes from inside the prison walls. The majority of inmates here will be here for a long time, and their behaviour will affect their eligibility for parole.”

He noted that many offenders at the facility were serving life sentences.

“We have given prisons one month to remove all contraband items. Regular searches are conducted, and we will do follow-ups.”

Thobakgale said they relied on information reported to area and regional officials, as well as to him in his capacity as national commissioner.

“Our phones are hotlines, and we will work around the clock to follow up on every lead. While it is important for offenders to stay in touch with friends and family, communication must be controlled and conducted in a legitimate manner.”

He added that contraband items often entered prisons when offenders attended court proceedings, or through correctional staff and external visitors.

“Action will be taken against inmates and officials who smuggle contraband into prisons,” Thobakgale warned.