Behind the imposing walls of St Albans Correctional Centre in the Eastern Cape Region, a decisive effort to restore order, discipline, and accountability is firmly underway.
On 9 April 2026, the National Commissioner (NC) of the Department of Correctional Services, Mr Makgothi Thobakgale, personally led a targeted search operation at the facility. The intervention followed intelligence reports pointing to ongoing criminal activity and the presence of gangsterism within the centre.
As part of the Department’s Gang Combating Strategy, a specific section of the facility was isolated and subjected to an intensive search. The operation forms part of a broader, sustained effort to root out illicit activities and reinforce a culture of compliance.
“I receive daily intelligence reports about St Albans,” said NC Thobakgale. “We are intensifying our efforts to address gangsterism and to clamp down on the aiding and abetting of contraband smuggling by officials.”
During the operation, officials confiscated a range of prohibited items, including cellphones, sharp objects, and drugs. These findings underscore the ongoing challenges faced by the Department, as well as the importance of proactive interventions.
In a strong stance against internal collusion, the National Commissioner emphasised that accountability extends to all levels of the organisation. As part of the operation, correctional officials were also searched prior to commencing their duties.
“Any official found to be complicit in the smuggling of contraband will face internal disciplinary action and may be subjected to criminal prosecution,” he warned.
The National Commissioner further cautioned against complacency and stressed the importance of professionalism, including strict adherence to working hours and punctuality.
This operation reaffirms the Department of Correctional Services’ commitment to ensuring that correctional centres remain secure environments conducive to rehabilitation, while upholding the highest standards of integrity and discipline among officials.