Krugersdorp prisoner dies after fire
2011-11-03 21:18
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Johannesburg
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Johannesburg - Another Krugersdorp prisoner has died after he and fellow-inmates set their cell on fire, prison officials said on Thursday.
Tsholo Moreki, 20, died at Leratong Hospital on Wednesday night, correctional services spokeswperson Sibongile Khumalo said.
Moreki was admitted to the hospital on Friday with cellmates Avumile Nonkwelo, 21, and Shadrack Takalo, 18.
Nonkwelo died on Saturday, while Takalo was recovering at the same hospital.
Khumalo said the three barricaded their cell with a steel bed on Friday and set their mattresses on fire.
They were awaiting trial on charges that included house breaking, assault, rape and murder.
"The motive for their action is still not clear and the matter is also being investigated internally," Khumalo said.
National correctional services commissioner Tom Moyane conveyed condolences to the families of the dead prisoners. "The department is deeply disturbed at the loss of lives, especially of young persons," he said.
- SAPA
