Transfers of Vusimuzi Matlala and Thabo Bester Based on Security Risk Assessments: DCS

Addressing questions on the transfers, Commissioner Thobakgale said inmate placement decisions are informed by continuous risk and threat assessments conducted across the correctional system.

 

The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed that the transfers of suspected criminal mastermind Vusimuzi ‘Cat’ Matlala and convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester to the eBongweni Super Maximum Correctional Centre in Kokstad were conducted strictly in line with comprehensive security and risk assessments.

This was confirmed by Correctional Services National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale during a media briefing held in Pretoria on Monday.

Security-Driven Decision-Making

Addressing questions on the transfers, Commissioner Thobakgale said inmate placement decisions are informed by continuous risk and threat assessments conducted across the correctional system.

“On a daily basis, we conduct risk assessments. We assess threats relating to the system and those relating to each individual inmate,” Thobakgale said. “This analysis forms part of a security plan that every correctional facility develops daily.”

He explained that the transfers of both Matlala and Bester were based on identified security risks and threat analyses, rather than arbitrary decisions.

Matlala was transferred to eBongweni in December, while Bester was moved late last month. Both had previously been housed at Kgoši Mampuru II Correctional Centre (C-Max) in Pretoria.

Ensuring Safety and Preventing Criminal Activity

Thobakgale emphasised that the transfers were necessary to ensure the safety of the inmates themselves, as well as to protect the integrity and security of the correctional system.

“It is with good reason and for the safety of both inmates, and to ensure that the safety and security of the correctional system is not undermined by activities associated with them,” he said.

He added that inmate transfers occur daily based on evolving risk profiles.

“For example, just yesterday an inmate was transferred from the Eastern Cape to eBongweni after being reclassified from medium to high security due to detected criminal activities,” Thobakgale noted.

“To prevent crime from continuing, including threats and risks associated with inmates in our facilities, we have to act promptly.”

Engagement with Legal Representatives

Responding to concerns reportedly raised by Matlala’s legal representatives regarding the quality of legal consultations, Thobakgale said the department remains open to engagement.

He confirmed that Matlala has been able to consult with his lawyers and that the department is also engaging with the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) and the courts to ensure logistical coordination.

“We are working together to ensure that he makes it to court on time. That obligation we have been able to meet,” he said. “The primary objective is to ensure that he remains available to appear in court.”

Security Mandate Reaffirmed

Thobakgale concluded by reaffirming that the Department of Correctional Services is fulfilling its mandate as a security institution, prioritising public safety, institutional stability and lawful inmate management.

“Our responsibility is to act where risks are identified, and to do so in a manner that safeguards the correctional system and the broader public,” he said.