Mangaung Correctional Centre
By Thabo Mosia
Four prison warders from the G4S-managed Mangaung Correctional Centre in the Free State have been arrested in connection with the death of inmate Mpho Mkhumbeni. The 38-year-old inmate died on 12 March 2025, following an unauthorised cell raid during which he was allegedly pepper-sprayed and beaten. 
Incident Overview
Initial reports suggested that Mkhumbeni’s death was due to natural causes. However, a post-mortem examination revealed that he died from complications related to pepper spray exposure and blunt force trauma. This led investigators to reclassify the case from an inquest to a murder investigation.  
The incident occurred after a member of the Dedicated Search Team (DST) accused Mkhumbeni and his cellmates of stealing R800 from his bag, which had been left in their cell during a prior search. The DST officials allegedly returned to the cell, interrogated, and assaulted the inmates over the missing money. 
Arrests and Legal Proceedings
The four warders, aged between 34 and 50, were arrested by Bloemspruit police on the evening of 22 April 2025. They are scheduled to appear in the Bloemfontein Magistrate’s Court on charges of murder. 
Brigadier Motantsi Makhele, a police spokesperson, stated, “The SAPS is committed to ensuring that justice is served and will thoroughly investigate this case.” 
Institutional Response and Oversight Failures
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has acknowledged serious breaches of protocol by G4S, the private contractor operating the facility. DCS Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale noted that senior managers failed to provide necessary oversight during and after the search, and their claims of not witnessing the incident lack credibility. 
In response, the DCS has suspended several G4S employees, including senior managers and members of the DST involved in the incident. The department is also pursuing legal proceedings to terminate its contract with G4S, citing the company’s failure to adhere to its obligations under the concession contract. 
Family’s Pursuit of Justice
Mkhumbeni’s family has expressed deep concern over the circumstances of his death and is seeking accountability. His brother, Bongile, recounted that Mkhumbeni was in good spirits during a family visit on 10 March, just two days before his death. “He was in perfect condition. He connected with his son, whom he had not seen,” Bongile said. 
Broader Implications
The Mangaung Correctional Centre has faced scrutiny in the past, notably following the 2022 escape of convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester. This latest incident raises further questions about the management and oversight of privately-run correctional facilities in South Africa.
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