-Staff Writer / Tue, 30 Dec 2025
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has quietly moved the remand detainee Vusimuzi Matlala out of the country’s most secure prison facility amid what officials describe as heightened security and operational concerns.
Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo confirmed that Matlala was moved from Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre’s C-Max unit to eBongweni Correctional Facility on 21 December 2025.
“The transfer of remand detainees between correctional facilities is a standard operational practice, informed primarily by security, safety and effective inmate management considerations,” Nxumalo said.
The confirmation comes amid growing public interest over inmate movements involving high-risk detainees, particularly those previously held at C-Max South Africa’s most restrictive correctional unit reserved for offenders deemed to pose serious security risks.
Correctional Services stressed that the relocation was lawful and executed under Section 6 of the Correctional Services Act, which gives the National Commissioner broad powers to determine where offenders or remand detainees are held, regardless of the wording of a warrant.
According to the Department, the decision was driven by internal security assessments and operational demands, with the safety of detainees, officials and facilities taking precedence.
“Where enhanced security measures are required, these considerations take precedence,” Nxumalo said.
Despite speculation that such transfers may impact ongoing legal proceedings, the Department insisted that Matlala’s legal rights remain fully protected. Officials said arrangements are in place to ensure continued access to healthcare, legal representation and uninterrupted court appearances.
However, Correctional Services drew a firm line on further disclosure, refusing to elaborate on the specific risks that prompted the move.
“Given the sensitive nature of security-related decisions, the Department will not engage in public discussion or commentary on the considerations underpinning this transfer,” Nxumalo said.
The Department’s refusal to provide additional details is likely to fuel further scrutiny, particularly as transfers from C-Max are rare and typically signal serious internal security concerns.
News Junction (Gold Standard)