In 2016/2017, the Department of Correctional Services reported that there are 43 646 remand detainees out of a total prison population of 161 054 (27%).
When Sonke and LHR launched their court case in December 2015, overcrowding levels at Pollsmoor Remand were approximately 238%.
When the case was finally heard in December 2016, overcrowding levels were more than 250%.
As of 30 April 2018, there were 2741 detainees in Pollsmoor Remand, putting it at 169% capacity with 1122 more detainees than it is approved to hold.
(Source: DCS Annual Report 2016/2017; DCS Western Cape Unlock Statistics, 16 November 2015, 21 November 2016, 30 April 2018)
