Inmate Dies at Oudtshoorn Correctional Centre Following Drug Discovery; Assault on Wardens Occurs
Oudtshoorn – A clash between inmates and prison staff at the Oudtshoorn Medium A Correctional Centre in the Western Cape escalated into a violent stabbing incident, leading to the death of one inmate and injuries to several wardens.
According to Singabakho Nxumalo, spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services, the violent occurrences, which involved officials being stabbed and an inmate losing their life, took place on Thursday, 7 August 2025.
Describing the events leading up to this tragic situation, Nxumalo mentioned: “On the morning of 6 August 2025, a search operation was carried out at the centre.”
“During this operation, inmates in Room 005 of A-Section initially resisted compliance.”
“With appropriate intervention, officials managed to access the area and continue with the search.”
Nxumalo reported that tensions escalated when some inmates opposed the search, but officials successfully regained control and completed the operation.
“A variety of contraband items, including cellphones and narcotics, were confiscated,” Nxumalo added.
“In what appeared to be an act of retaliation, on 7 August 2025 at approximately 07:55, inmates from Room 005 executed a premeditated and violent assault on officials during the unlocking procedures.”
At that moment, 18 officials were present at the correctional facility.
“Four of them sustained injuries, including stab wounds to the face, head, and back,” Nxumalo reported.
“They received medical assistance, and the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) has been activated to support them and their families.”
“One inmate involved in the altercation suffered injuries and, despite receiving medical care, sadly passed away.”
“This loss of life is regrettable and will be subject to a thorough investigation following departmental protocols.”
The National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, voiced concern regarding the unacceptable behavior of inmates during the search operation.
“The safety of both officials and inmates is our utmost priority,” Thobakgale stressed.
“Incidents like this are deeply disturbing, and we are committed to conducting a comprehensive investigation of all contributing factors.”
Nxumalo confirmed that the situation at the centre is presently under control.
“The inmates involved in the stabbings have been placed in solitary confinement while disciplinary measures are pending,” Nxumalo noted.
“A-Unit has been re-searched, resulting in the discovery of additional weapons.”
“All inmate activities and visits have been suspended until further notice.”
Nxumalo reiterated that the department is focused on ensuring the safety and welfare of both officials and inmates while maintaining order across all correctional institutions.
