2 Ermelo Prison Wardens Nabbed for Allegedly Attempting To Smuggle, SA Raves: “Nail Them, Piet!”

• Two prison officials at Ermelo correctional centre in Mpumalanga have been arrested for allegedly trying to smuggle contraband
• They were found with dagga, a cell phone and accessories during a surprise search of staff, leading to their arrests
• Netizens broke out in a tumult as they lauded the crackdown on corrupt wardens at SA's correctional facilities

ERMELO — Two prison wardens were arrested for allegedly attempting to smuggle contraband at the Emerlo correctional centre in Mpumalanga.

The officials were caught red-handed after reporting for duty when they were found in possession of cannabis and a cell phone with accessories.

2 Ermelo wardens attempt to smuggle

It followed a surprise search of staff on Wednesday morning, IOL reported. The duo were subsequently arrested and charged.

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Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the department would institute a disciplinary inquiry.

Prisons boss Makgothi Thobakgale commended non-corrupt officials for their vigilance, resulting in the interception of the contraband.

Despite criticism, he reiterated his department's commitment to enhancing security measures at correctional facilities and the strict adherence to ethical guidelines by prison employees.

“This incident [highlights] the commitment to integrity and security at correctional centres, in addition to continuous efforts to combat illegal activities in the correctional system," said Thobakgale.

The incident at the correctional centre follows several raids at South African prisons in recent weeks, including Johannesburg's infamous Sun City on Wednesday, 24 July 2024.

Locals laud corruption crackdown

A viral video of an inmate boasting about doing "extremely fine" behind bars over a week ago is thought to have sparked the cascading events.

Nxumalo, speaking exclusively to Briefly News, said his department had since undertaken an internal probe against the wardens per its internal protocols.

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He said the pair appeared at the Ermelo Magistrate's Court on Thursday, 25 July.

"However, according to the state prosecutor, the matter wasn't enrolled [because] the contraband was not found in the officials' possession, but in their cars outside the prison," Nxumalo told Briefly News.

"As of this juncture, the internal investigation is still ongoing. Only after concluding will the department be in a position to institute disciplinary processes or [otherwise] on the premise [of] prima facie evidence."

Meanwhile, locals online have applauded the crackdown on corrupt officials. Briefly News looks at several responses to the development.

@iSeekTruth007 wrote:

"It's deeply concerning to see corruption and illegal activities even within our correctional services. This case highlights the need for more rigorous checks and integrity within our prison systems."

@Lesley0339571 said:

"Mlungu has arrived, and we are beginning to bear fruits."

@nic_westco98350 reacted:

"In the US all prison officials are screened before work. We need to do that here ASAP."

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Mpho Popps throws shade at SA prisons

In other news, Briefly News reported that with all the drama in South African prisons lately, comedian Mpho 'Popps' Modikoane thought it fair to serve up some hilarity with a wild skit.

And what a treat it proved to be! The gagster put the F in funny when he posted a skit featuring several cast members to X on Thursday, 25 July.

Source: Briefly News