Mhlaba Memela

Mhlaba Memela

KwaZulu-Natal police yesterday confirmed that they were investigating warders fingered in the death of prisoners at the Waterval Prison, outside Newcastle.

This follows a high-level probe launched by former inspecting judge of prisons, Nathan Erasmus, and the correctional service portfolio chairman, Denis Bloem.

The probe was launched after six prisoners died at the prison since December.

Police spokesman Captain Shooz Magudulela said police are currently investigating a criminal case.

"We have the case but we cannot release more details at this stage because we will jeopardise our investigation," said Magudulela.

"What I can assure you is that police are on top of the issue and the investigation is expected to be completed soon."

He said Bloem had indicated that the report about the issue of Waterval was so "bad" that he he will urge the Department of Correctional Services to table it before parliament.