By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Correctional Services Department has confirmed that the death of an inmate Mpho Mkhumbeni at Mangaung prison wasn’t from natural causes.
Mkhumbeni was convicted of murder on November 4, 2014, and admitted to MCC, operated by private security contractor G4S on November 28, 2014.
DCS Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale says Mkhumbeni, who was serving life, died due to pepper spray exposure.
He reportedly collapsed in his cell and was rushed to the facility’s internal hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival by a medical doctor.
“However, conflicting accounts soon emerged from further reports requested by the department from the contractor and its employees,” said Thobakgale.
“This prompted DCS to launch a full-scale investigation into the matter.”
The investigation began on March 14, 2025, and is currently at an advanced stage.
According to Thobakgale, G4S conducted a cell search at the Wolds Unit, Street 1, Cell 6, on the evening of March 11, 2025, without notifying the temporary manager appointed by DCS, who should have been present.
Thobakgale said that while G4S had begun suspending some officials involved, senior managers continued to operate as normal.
He said the investigation confirmed that the contractor failed to meet its obligations under the Concession Contract.
An inquest case was opened by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on March 12, and later converted into a murder investigation.