Tighter security for Barberton prison this festive period

BARBERTON – The prison launched a safer festive season campaign that started on December 1 and ends on January 10.

The prison spokesperson, Messiah Hlungwani, said, “The festive season is a challenging period as the inmates become restless and desperate to be with their loved ones, therefore, to mitigate the challenge, the department has put measures in place that will ensure the community is safe and no one escapes from our cells.” “In the same period last year, two community members were caught in the act, trying to smuggle contraband. They were convicted and sentenced, and the department will show no mercy to the delinquents,” Hlungwani said.

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The movement of offenders is limited and only emergencies are attended to.

“Community members are allowed visit, but under stringent conditions. Those who are planning to visit their loved ones behind bars, are expected to make prior bookings with the respective centre. They will receive booking confirmation numbers that they will be expected to display upon arrival at the centre.”

Failure to do so might result in visitors being denied access.

“One visitor is permitted to visit once during the period, and is urged to observe Covid-19 protocols. In the district of Ehlanzeni, the department has about 5 000 inmates under its care, which includes remand detainees and sentenced offenders.

This year, the correctional services in Barberton has managed to keep a clean sheet when it comes to curbing incidents of escape,” he said.