South Africa’s (SA) correctional system is under growing strain, with the inmate population now exceeding 170 000 nationwide.<\/p>\n
National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale, says the number of offenders behind bars continues to rise on a weekly basis, placing mounting pressure on already stretched facilities.<\/p>\n
While Thobakgale has pointed to the increasing numbers as a reflection of the effectiveness of the police, the National Prosecuting Authority and the courts in tackling crime, he warns that the impact is being felt most acutely within correctional centres.<\/p>\n
He says prisons across the country are operating at more than 150% capacity in many instances, with no facility managing overcrowding below 50% raising concerns about safety, security and the humane detention of inmates.<\/p>\n
–SABC–<\/p>\n