In response, the department of correctional services stated that in the 2023/24 financial year, it appointed the Development Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) to carry out major repairs and renovations at the Johannesburg Medium A, B, C, and Female correctional centres.
“During the planning and design stages, a condition assessment was finalised, which examined various architectural elements such as plaster, paint conditions, plumbing, electrical systems, tiling, fire safety measures and overall structural health,” said the department.
It confirmed that as an interim solution, it frequently drained flooded areas and repaired leaks.
“These interventions will be intensified to mitigate these risks,” the department added.
James also raised concerns about overcrowding at the prison.
“Overcrowding at JHB prison, Sun City. Total population 10,930, bed space, 4,985. Undocumented foreign nationals 4,079. This is why three offenders are now sharing a bed,” said James.
Sun City Prison made headlines in July when a raid by the DCS and police uncovered illegal items such as weapons, PlayStations, cellphones, televisions and marijuana, drawing further attention to the security and management challenges at the facility.
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