Pollsmor Prison: a timebomb waiting to explode by Florence Batyi
2004-11-02. Three inmates at Pollsmor Prison died recently in fire in their cells allegedly set alight by themselves. This comes on the back of another death at the prison - the investigation into which is incomplete. These tragic events arise from overcrowding. Government has been aware of the problem for several years, and yet no alternative arrangements have been made or solutions sought.
Delegations from Government and
Parliament visits have failed to address this dangerous and inhumane
situation. The frustration amongst inmates is so high that there are
even attempts at suicide. Overcrowding also affects the prison
management and the wardens, placing them under extreme stress. In this
environment corrupt relations develop between inmates and staff,
resulting in escapes, violence and murders.
Unless government urgently addresses the Pollsmor issues, more prison deaths are likely and the entire facility could go up in smoke.
* More effective searchers are necessary.
* Hardcore prisoners must be separated from those who have committed softer crimes.
* Gangsterism in prisons must be curtailed. Career criminals prevented from recruiting members. Gangleaders should be transferred to Maximum Security prisons.
The Minister of Correctional Services must take practical steps to alleviate overcrowding immediately.
I thank you
Unless government urgently addresses the Pollsmor issues, more prison deaths are likely and the entire facility could go up in smoke.
* More effective searchers are necessary.
* Hardcore prisoners must be separated from those who have committed softer crimes.
* Gangsterism in prisons must be curtailed. Career criminals prevented from recruiting members. Gangleaders should be transferred to Maximum Security prisons.
The Minister of Correctional Services must take practical steps to alleviate overcrowding immediately.
I thank you
