Prison Corruption and Abuse

The alleged “beds-for-cash” system and claims of sexual coercion at Tshwane’s Kgosi Mampuru II prison have raised serious concerns about prison governance, inmate safety and human rights. Former inmates allege they were forced to pay for beds, while overcrowding and poor conditions remain major challenges. The Department of Correctional Services says the allegations are serious and will be investigated. Serious allegations about conditions inside the Kgosi Mampuru II prison in Tshwane, particularly cells C1 and C2. Former inmates claim prisoners were allegedly required to pay R240 for a bunk bed and mattress, with those unable to pay reportedly forced to sleep on the concrete floor in overcrowded and unhygienic conditions. GUEST: Prof Thabiso Matshaba, Unisa's College of Law School of Criminal Justice