Calls for disciplinary action as viral video exposes contraband

Correctional Services is taking disciplinary action against inmates implicated in a viral video showing them dancing and playing music inside Pretoria’s Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre.

An urgent search operation uncovered a range of contraband, including five cellphones, drugs, two hacksaw blades and other prohibited items.

Spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo says the department is also investigating how the items were smuggled into the facility and whether officials may have been involved in the security breaches.

“Correctional Services has moved swiftly. Following the circulation of a video on social media, depicting offenders engaged in unbecoming conduct, the National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale, immediately instructed that a search operation be conducted and this resulted in the confiscation of unauthorised items – these include mobile phones. routers, bank cards, and other items. 
The extent and nature of these items are covered, underscoring the seriousness of the security breaches, that the department is determined to address.”

Correctional Services Acts Against Unbecoming Conduct by Offenders at Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Facility https://t.co/EPnAnvOAbD

— The Department Correctional Services (@DCS_ZA) November 6, 2026