A prison sentence should never become a death sentence

A prison sentence should never become a death sentence. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) faces mounting pressure to address the alarming rate of unnatural deaths in custody and the persistent delays in investigating and confirming these incidents. According to the Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services (JICS), 44 unnatural deaths were recorded in the first quarter of the 2026/27 financial year, compared to 24 in the same period the previous year. These figures highlight a troubling trend that has sparked serious concerns among lawmakers and human rights advocates. The Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services has voiced growing alarm over both the frequency of these deaths and the sluggish pace of resolving them. The JICS reported that only 54.5% of unnatural deaths and 51.59% of natural deaths were confirmed during the quarter. While the committee acknowledges that some cases involve complex investigations requiring autopsies, forensic analysis, or criminal inquiries, it argues that extended delays without adequate follow-up are unacceptable. The lack of timely resolution undermines public trust and hampers efforts to identify systemic issues within the correctional system. Behind each statistic lies a story of loss and suffering. Families of those who died in custody face emotional distress compounded by uncertainty. In many instances, they are left waiting for months without clear explanations of what occurred. For example, Mpho Mkhumbeni died at Mangaung Correctional Centre on 12 March 2025 after a cell search. Allegations of assault and torture emerged during the investigation, and an autopsy revealed his death was unnatural. The case was classified as murder, leading to further scrutiny of the conditions under which he was held. Similarly, Quinton Fortuin died at Goodwood Correctional Centre in February 2025 following an altercation with a correctional official. An autopsy found he suffered multiple blunt-force injuries, prompting the suspension of four staff members as investigations and disciplinary actions unfolded. These cases underscore the need for transparency and accountability in how the DCS handles deaths in custody. Another notable case involves Simphiwe Celise, who died at Oudtshoorn Correctional Centre in August 2025. Officials intervened after four correctional officers were stabbed, raising questions about command and control, risk assessment, and adherence to use-of-force protocols. Despite Section 32 of the Correctional Services Act outlining permissible levels of force, the incident exposed potential lapses in protocol and training. The committee has also highlighted administrative shortcomings, including late paperwork and incomplete documentation. These issues hinder the ability of authorities to track and respond effectively to deaths in custody. Proper record-keeping and clear lines of responsibility are essential to ensuring that every death is thoroughly examined and that families receive accurate information in a timely manner. Lawmakers stress that the correctional system has a legal obligation to safeguard the lives of those in its care. Section 4(2)(a) of the Correctional Services Act mandates that the DCS ensure the safe custody of all inmates, while Section 15 establishes a framework for addressing deaths in custody. Yet, the current approach appears to fall short of these requirements. As the DCS grapples with these challenges, the focus remains on improving investigative processes and strengthening institutional accountability. With ongoing reports of preventable deaths and procedural failures, the call for reform grows louder. The hope is that through rigorous oversight and meaningful reforms, the correctional system will finally live up to its mandate of protecting the dignity and safety of those in its charge.