Leeuwkop prison shares their experience with Covid-19
FOURWAYS – Case officer at Leeuwkop George Moloko has successfully recovered from the virus. He spoke to the Fourways Review, unpacking his experiences.
Leeuwkop Prison believes they are past the peak of the coronavirus with one active case of an official and three active cases of inmates on 16 September.
The prison saw 83 cases of Covid-19 among officials since the start of the pandemic, with 81 recoveries, while one official passed away as a result of the virus.
Health manager at the prison Gloria Mashiyane said 31 inmates tested positive for the virus since the start of the pandemic.
Mashiyane added that there were three active cases at present and these inmates had been isolated in designated areas. “We believe that the inmates contracted the virus as a result of prison officials who brought it in unknowingly. Nurses screen both officials and offenders daily. Those who develop symptoms are tested. The Department of Correctional Services also released a number of qualifying inmates in order to relieve the issue of overcrowding at the prison,” said Mashiyane.
Case officer at Leeuwkop George Moloko has successfully recovered from the virus. He spoke to the Fourways Review, unpacking his experiences.
He was tested for Covid-19 on 29 June and received his positive result on 7 July. “I felt dizzy, had no sense of taste or smell, lost my appetite and my body felt sore. I insisted on going to work, thinking that it was flu,” said Moloko.
“After receiving my results, management found me alternative accommodation with immediate effect. I was sent to the quarantine site at Midrand Eskom Academy Centre where I stayed for
14 days.”
Moloko added that the medical staff who cared for him were well-organised and took his temperature daily. “On my ninth day of isolation, I experienced shortness of breath and my temperature reached 38.2°C. After a few days, my temperature reduced. I kept my faith and prayed. My appetite returned on the 12th day and my sense of smell returned on the 14th day.”
He commended the management at Leeuwkop and labour union who supported him by delivering groceries and herbs during his isolation period.
Area coordinator for corporate services Bafana Mashego described the pandemic as a new challenge at Leeuwkop.
He said, “I thought the virus would never come to us, but when it did we found it necessary to support those who tested positive by doing regular calls and assisting where possible. Having support and knowing that there are people who care is so important.
Mashego added, “One death at our facility was too many.”
Resumption of visitation
From 19 September, visitations to offenders were reopened, subject to strict protocols.
Mona Coetzee of Leeuwkop Department of Correctional Services communications said on 16 September, “The booking process has already started and the family members and relatives of offenders incarcerated at our facility can call to make bookings for visits. Please also note that adherence to Covid-19 regulations still applies to all visits.”
The following guidelines are applicable for visits:
• Only close family members and relatives are permitted to visit
• Interactions do not include any contact
• One visit per inmate per month with the prior arrangement is permitted
• Cash payments/deposits for inmates will be allowed through authorised electronic means
• Prior arrangements must be obtained by legal representatives from the Head of Correctional Centres accompanied by proof of scheduled court appearances to qualify the consult as urgent.
