Videos: Max security prison in Limpopo catches fire
Inmates at the Kutama-Sinthumule Correctional Centre had to be moved to a safe zone inside the facility.
Emergency services personnel were on the scene where a fire started at the Kutama-Sinthumule Correctional Centre outside Louis Trichardt in Limpopo yesterday.
Video footage of the blaze emerged on social media showing smoke billowing out of a building while guards stand by.
A fire broke out at the Kutama-Sinthumele Correctional Services outside Louis Trichardt today.
🎥 – supplied pic.twitter.com/tp3SyXoDC0— Polokwane Observer (@PolokwaneObserv) August 7, 2023
The Department of Correctional Services said in a statement that the fire caused extensive damage to the kitchen, the maintenance section and two blocks at the facility.
Emergency services and police are currently on the scene as inmates are being evacuated to safety.
🎥 – Supplied pic.twitter.com/6B9ZFB2IkX
— Polokwane Observer (@PolokwaneObserv) August 7, 2023
“The two centres house a total of 1 892 inmates, as 1 132 reside at the yellow centre, which is not affected by the fire at this stage. Inmates are being moved to a safe zone inside the facility,” their statement read.
The cause of the fire is unknown at this stage but the department said it will form part of an ongoing investigation.
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