SAHRC probes torture claim during St Albans prison raid

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A complaint has been lodged with the SA Human Rights Commission against the correctional services department's emergency security team, or EST, for allegedly beating, electrocuting, and torturing inmates at the St Albans correctional centre in Port Elizabeth.

The EST allegedly searched about 200 inmates for contraband on the night of 2 and 3 March this year.

The SA Human Rights Commission's Isaac Mangena says the search led to the "alleged mass-beatings, electric shock, and torture of inmates."

Mangena issued a statement today in which the SAHRC condemened such action, especially after the Prevention of Torture Act was passed, and after the United Nations Human Rights Commission human rights violation verdict against South Africa.

Eastern Cape Correctional Services Provincial Commissioner, Nkosinathi Breakfast, confirmed the searches were conducted.

"I'm not sure about the issue of torture. I received a report form officials that the offender complained alleged to have been assaulted by EST members that were there on that day," he said.

Breakfast said at "this stage" that's the only comment he has on the matter.