With more than 4,000 inmates, Pollsmoor Prison’s awaiting trial section is one of the most overcrowded correctional facilities in the country.
In an application filed at the Western Cape High Court, Sonke Gender Justice and Lawyers For Human Rights are challenging the “deplorable” conditions for staff and detainees inside the facility.
“The health risks and overcrowding in the remand section are a violation of their constitutional rights. These inmates are legally still presumed innocent until proven guilty,” says Ariane Nevin, Sonke Gender Justice policy development and advocacy officer. Sonke is also a member of the Detention Justice Forum.
Read the full Ground Up article here.
