'All of us must get rid of this evil of gangsterism' - Groenewald
South African Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald is addressing the issue of gang activity within the country's prison system. He emphasizes that while prisons are struggling with contraband and gang leadership, the problem is a shared responsibility between the state and local communities.
Why it matters
The debate highlights the systemic challenges of prison reform and the difficulty of curbing organized crime that operates both inside and outside of detention facilities.
JOHANNESBURG - South African prisons have a role to play in rehabilitation and maintaining public safety amid high crime levels.
But there is growing debate over whether they are actually disrupting organised crime or simply relocating its leadership behind bars.
Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald painted a grim picture.
"I do not deny the fact that we have a huge problem of gangs in our prisons, but if we are truthful, we must say communities must also pay their part."
His comments come after Parliament heard that prisons are becoming breeding grounds for gangs.
That was the warning from KZN police commissioner Nhlanhla Mkhwanazi, who is leading a task team addressing organised crime.
READ | Breeding ground is prison: Mkhwanazi sounds alarm on gangs behind bars
Mkhwanazi told MPs that some inmates learn new tricks in prison and enter gangs instead of being rehabilitated.
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