BARBERTON- One inmate has died and another has been taken to hospital after a fire broke out at the Barberton Juvenile Prison last night, October 25.
According to sources, there were nineteen inmates inside the cell at the time of the fire. As a result, one prisoner died from smoke inhalation and another has been hospitalised at Rob Ferreira Hospital with serious burn wounds. His condition is reported to be critical. Sixteen inmates were admitted at Barberton General Hospital and remain under observation. One inmate has been released.
Limpopo correctional services spokeswoman Sarie Peens was quoted as saying:
“At the moment I can only confirm that there was an incident last night at the correctional centre, at the youth centre, in town. Apparently 19 offenders were in a cell and they set the cell alight. One offender was injured and was taken to hospital and another offender unfortunately passed away.”
According to reports from another news source, Manelisi Wolela, national spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services said the Chief Deputy Commissioner of Incarceration and Corrections and acting Regional Commissioner are on their way to the center to get first-hand information and investigate the incident.
The area commissioner and regional commissioner will be addressing media on this matter today during a briefing that will take place at Barberton Juvenile Prison.
The Department is expected to release a more detailed statement this afternoon.
Barberton Times will keep you udated as more information becomes available.
