Prison visits allowed during Level 2
Inmates at correctional centres are allowed to receive visitors again now that lockdown Level 2 is in play.
Inmate visits to correctional centres and remand detention centres are permitted under strict conditions.
"Visits are limited to one non-contact visit per inmate per calendar month, and only one visitor per inmate at a time," said Department of Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo. "Bookings must be pre-arranged at least 48 hours prior to the visit. No visits are allowed without prior appointment. Only visitors with face masks as per the approved name-list are allowed access. Visitors must arrive at least 30 minutes before the time. Inmates are allowed to receive items as per their privilege group and as prescribed in the policy."
Visiting hours are between 09:00 and 15:00 on visit days. Remanded detainees may receive visits on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays, but not on public holidays. Sentenced offenders are allowed visits on Wednesdays, Thursdays, weekends and public holidays. Consultation visits between legal practitioners and inmates are non-contact. Legal practitioners must make prior arrangements with the head of the centre. On urgent matters, legal representatives and inmates may communicate telephonically after approval and where circumstances and resources permit.
If, at any given time, there are new or suspected cases of Covid-19 in a facility or unforeseen circumstances at the premises, this could affect visitations. Those planning a visit should always confirm their visit with the relevant correctional centre before travelling.