Correctional services sets up ‘war room’ following Bosasa liquidation
The Department of Correctional Services has set up a “war room” to deal with the fallout from the liquidation of facilities management company Bosasa.
African Global Operations, previously known as Bosasa, filed for voluntary liquidation after the company’s banks decided to close its bank accounts.
The department’s Singabakho Nxumalo says the “war room” will put together a plan to ensure there is no disruption to service delivery at the country’s correctional centres.
Bosasa, who has been implicated in large-scale corruption at the commission of inquiry into state capture, is responsible for the provision of food at several prisons.
Nxumalo says the department needs to be prepared in case the organisation is no longer in a position to render services.
“It’s worth noting that since the testimony given by the former Bosasa CFO Andries van Tonder at the Zondo commission, correctional services had already started a review process in relation to all food services contracts.
“The department is at an advanced stage in terms of developing an alternative food services plan. An audit has been concluded to look at the state of the kitchens, including infrastructure and equipment, financial and human resources, systems involved in procuring perishable goods, and the standard operating procedures.”
Nxumalo say any possible interruption to services due to the situation at African Global Organisation will be limited to 29% of the total inmate population.
A plan has also been activated to ensure that safety and security at prisons is maintained.