Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale has directed a senior official to investigate allegations that high profile inmates, such as businessman Thoshan Panday, are receiving preferential treatment.
According to prior reports, some wealthy prisoners in KwaZulu-Natal correctional facilities are allegedly bribing prison officials for unauthorised “hospital breaks”.
In a statement, the Department of Correctional Services announced that the investigator will review and assess the legitimacy of these claims, focusing on whether any inmates have received special privileges contrary to department policies.
The department emphasised its commitment to ensuring fair and equal treatment of all inmates, regardless of their financial or social status.
Beyond addressing these specific allegations, the investigator is tasked with examining the facility’s standard procedures to confirm they uphold the core principles of integrity, impartiality, and fairness, which are central to the correctional system.
“Operational practices must be consistently applied across all 243 correctional facilities in the country,” the department said.
In September, Thoshan Panday was arrested on charges of defrauding the South African Revenue Services (SARS) of R7,3 million.
He faces 27 charges, including fraud and violations of tax laws involving false VAT and income tax returns.
Panday’s bail request was denied by the Durban Magistrate’s Court, which cited his flight risk status and previous interference with state witnesses, including an attempt to bribe an investigating officer. His appeal to the Durban High Court was also rejected.
In a separate case, Panday was granted R10,000 bail over allegations that he defrauded the South African Police Service (SAPS) by inflating accommodation prices during the 2010 FIFA World Cup.
He and his family members reportedly submitted cover quotes for police accommodation in collaboration with Narainpershad and Madhoe, SAPS supply chain managers in KwaZulu-Natal. This scheme led to the awarding of 166 contracts totaling R47 million.
Panday’s mother, Arevenda Panday; wife, Privisha Panday; sister, Kajal Ishwarkumar; brother-in-law, Seveesh Maharaj Ishwarkumar; and former assistant, Tasleem Rahiman, have been arrested on charges of racketeering, fraud, and money laundering.
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