An investigation has been launched by the national commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) following allegations of special treatment of wealthy inmates.

Makgothi Thobakgale, national commissioner of the DCS, has appointed a senior official at the department to investigate allegations of special treatment of wealthy inmates – specifically Durban businessman Thoshan Panday – at Westville Correctional Centre.

“In light of the gravity of these allegations, Thobakgale has appointed a senior official, at the level of deputy commissioner to conduct a thorough investigation.

“The appointed investigator will examine and clarify the validity of the accusations, with a focus on determining whether any inmate(s) have received privileges or treatment inconsistent with DCS policies and standards,” the department said in a statement.

The department said it was committed to “upholding fairness and equality in the treatment of all incarcerated individuals, regardless of their financial or social standing.”

“Beyond this specific investigation, the appointed investigator will study the standard operating procedures within the facility in order to ensure that they align with the principles of integrity, impartiality, and fairness that are fundamental to the correctional system.

“Operational practices must be consistently applied across all 243 correctional facilities in the country.
“The national commissioner emphasised that the DCS remains steadfast in its mission to administer corrections with accountability and transparency,” the statement said. – SAnews.gov.za