Solo visits now permitted amid strict protocols

THE Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has reviewed its Covid-19 risk-adjusted strategy, with visits to inmates at the country’s correctional centres now permitted.

DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said it was critical for the public to know that visits are limited to one non-contact visit per inmate per calendar month, and only one visitor per inmate at a time.

Nxumalo said bookings must be pre-arranged at least 48 hours before the intended visit. Only visitors with masks and on the approved name-list would be allowed access.

“Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the commencement of the scheduled visit time. Consultation visits between legal practitioners and inmates will be non-contact and shall observe Covid-19 health protocols and operating procedures, as determined by DCS. As prescribed, legal practitioners will be expected to make prior arrangements with the head of centre,” Nxumalo said.

He said on urgent matters, legal representatives and inmates may communicate by phone after approval from the head of the centre.

“Those planning a visit should always confirm their visit with the relevant correctional centre. Visits will be permitted between 9am and 3pm on visit days,” he said.

Nxumalo said in centres housing both sentenced and remand categories, and depending on the number of inmates, remand detainees may receive visits on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, excluding public holidays, whereas sentenced offenders would be allowed visits on Wednesdays, Thursdays, weekends and public holidays.

The South African Sentenced and Awaiting Trial Prisoners Organisation chairperson Phindile Zweni said they were not happy with only the one non-contact visit a month for inmates. |