Question NW1185 to the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
20 May 2022 - NW1185
Tito, Ms LF to ask the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services
(1)What is the outcome of the investigation conducted at Tswelopele Correctional Centre in Kimberley, following an incident which led to the injury of correctional officials, death of two offenders and suspension of 17 officials; (2) whether trauma management has been provided to officials who face daily acts of terrorism from offenders; if not, why not; if so, what are the relevant details?
Reply:
1. Indeed, there was a security incident at Tswelopele Correctional Centre on 05 March 2022, wherein one (01) official was injured and two (02) offenders died. It can be confirmed that eight (08) and not seventeen (17) officials were immediately placed on precautionary suspension pending outcome of the investigation. The investigation has been finalised and consequence management is to be applied following departmental protocols including the review of suspensions.
2. Trauma management is provided to the officials who are exposed to acts of violence from offenders. Trauma counselling is provided by the Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) officers of the Department.
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