The Department of Correctional Services has taken disciplinary action against four prison wardens and had them suspended following the February death of a high-risk inmate at Goodwood Correctional Centre, with investigations revealing concerning operational challenges at the overcrowded facility.
Inmate Killed During Unauthorised Routine
During a standard morning inmate count on February 16, 44-year-old Quinton Fortuin – awaiting trial on multiple violent charges – allegedly assaulted a corrections officer with a makeshift weapon. The attack resulted in severe injuries, including a fractured arm, before responding staff intervened.
National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale confirmed Fortuin sustained injuries during restraint procedures and was pronounced dead at Karl Bremer Hospital. A forensic autopsy determined that the death resulted from multiple blunt-force trauma, classifying it as unnatural.
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Overcrowding Crisis Exposes Systemic Risks
Commissioner Thobakgale revealed alarming statistics about the facility’s conditions:
- Operating at 150% capacity (2,480 inmates vs. 1,651 designed beds)
- Only 302 staff managing the population
- Mixed population of pretrial detainees and sentenced offenders
“These overcrowding conditions create ongoing safety risks for both staff and inmates that require immediate management review,” Thobakgale stated during a press briefing.
Deceased Inmate’s Violent Criminal History
Fortuin faced numerous serious charges, including:
- Three counts of murder
- Attempted murder charges
- Armed robbery
- Illegal firearm possession
Records showed an extensive criminal history dating to 2007, with multiple incarcerations and parole violations related to violent behaviour.
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Four Prison Wardens Suspended over inmate’s death
The suspended officers remain under investigation while the department evaluates systemic improvements.
“We treat this incident with maximum seriousness and will implement all necessary disciplinary measures,”
Thobakgale assured the public, emphasising the need for operational reforms at the strained facility.
The case highlights ongoing challenges in South Africa’s correctional system, particularly regarding overcrowding and staff safety protocols.