An inmate at Mangaung Correctional Centre was found dead on Sunday in what authorities have described as an apparent s_icide.
The Department of Correctional Services confirmed the inmate had taken his own life by hanging.
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In a statement, the department said:
“The Department of Correctional Services confirms with regret the death of an inmate who was found to have taken his own life by hanging.”
The inmate’s identity has not been released, as officials notify the family.
The Office of the National Commissioner has called for a thorough investigation into the circumstances of the death.
“We appeal for patience and understanding as we ensure that the proper procedures are followed with due respect to the family’s privacy,” the department added.
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The incident has added to growing scrutiny of South Africa’s prison system. Just in October, a female inmate at Johannesburg Female Correctional Centre died amid allegations of mistreatment.
The woman’s family accused prison officials of torturing her to force information about a cellphone discovered during a contraband raid. The inmate died in hospital weeks later.
At the time, the Department of Correctional Services rejected the claims. Spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said:
“She was not feeling well and was transferred to an outside hospital where she sadly passed on. The family can be provided with her medical report and cause of death. The allegations raised are definitely a lie.”
The two deaths have reignited calls for reform in South African prisons, where overcrowding, poor oversight, and alleged abuse have repeatedly been flagged by human rights organizations. Critics argue these facilities fail to meet basic standards for safety and inmate care.