The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed it is working closely with the South African Police Service (SAPS) to investigate and dismantle criminal syndicates responsible for smuggling contraband into correctional facilities. Joint Operations Task Teams have been established at provincial level, supported by intelligence-sharing and coordinated planning to identify smuggling patterns and develop countermeasures.
The DCS acknowledged that several correctional officials have been implicated in contraband smuggling. Actions taken include suspensions, internal disciplinary hearings under the DCS Disciplinary Code, and referrals to SAPS for criminal investigation and prosecution. Some cases have already resulted in arrests, while others remain under investigation or await disciplinary outcomes. The department reiterated its zero-tolerance stance towards corruption.
In the second quarter of the 2024/25 financial year, a heightened “Operation Clean-up” was carried out across multiple facilities, including Thohoyandou. This initiative led to the confiscation of drugs, mobile phones, and other prohibited items, with arrests of both external suppliers and internal facilitators. Intelligence gathered jointly by DCS and SAPS continues to guide such operations.
The DCS has committed to making relevant audit and inspection reports public, subject to operational security considerations. The most recent findings show improved contraband detection measures, such as the installation of body scanners and enhanced perimeter security at Thohoyandou. Nevertheless, the department continues to face challenges in curbing internal collusion and evolving smuggling tactics.
As of June 2025, Thohoyandou Correctional Centre was operating at approximately 135% of its approved capacity. Measures to reduce overcrowding include parole policy reviews, transfers of low-risk inmates, and infrastructure maintenance to increase usable space.
Mechanisms to ensure accountability include integrity testing, lifestyle audits of high-risk officials, collaboration with SAPS on corruption cases, enforcement of the DCS Code of Conduct, and anti-corruption strategies. Whistle-blower protections and confidential reporting channels are also in place, with guilty parties facing dismissal, prosecution, and referral to oversight bodies.
The department emphasised that these efforts form part of an ongoing campaign to strengthen prison security, uphold the rule of law, and restore public trust.
