The national spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Singabakho Nxumalo, has confirmed that the circulating videos of Boksburg inmates claiming that they were shot with rubber bullets by prison warders for no reason are ‘untrue’.

Nxumalo says a group of inmates became unruly and barricaded a sectional prison gate in retaliation to a mandatory search operation by the National Task Team of the Department of Correctional Services as part of its festive season security operation.

“The few unruly inmates, who sought to prevent the searching exercise, knew that they were hiding contraband and cellphones in their prison cells.

“DCS shall never hesitate to act to ensure that there is no dereliction from their core mandate of corrections. Inmates attempting to undermine the authority of the state know the consequences.

“DCS will never compromise the safety and security of the inmates, officials, members of the community and service providers,” says Nxumalo.

Boksburg Prison pic.twitter.com/Lp3mG8t35O

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He adds that the proliferation of cellphones and other contraband is a concern for the department and that these items must be removed from their facilities.

“Some images and videos circulating on social media platforms emanate from inmates, making a mockery of the correctional system. Inmates who caused the chaos will be identified and corrective measures taken against them.

“DCS has seen the comical acts by the inmates captured by cellphones [illegally in their possession] in an attempt to divert attention from deviant behaviour.

“We remain committed to incarcerating inmates in a humane and secure environment,” explains Nxumalo.