Five years for corrupt prison warden

Nditsheni Alfred Madula (40) was sentenced, after he was found guilty of selling dagga in Thohoyandou Central Prison, where he was working.

Madula was caught red-handed by his colleague, a Popcru member, while delivering dagga to the prison cells on a food plate.

Madula was arrested on the spot. His case was postponed several times until he was found guilty on March 1. He was sentenced on March 3.

Madula's arrest came shortly after inmates alleged that senior members in the prison were running a dagga selling syndicate scheme. They said that warders were using inmates to sell dagga in the prison. The Anti Corruption Unit from Pretoria also investigated the allegations.

Prison manager Ken Bouwer hailed the decision taken by the court, adding that it will send a strong message to any member who might be tempted to commit such crime.

Bouwer also added that the fact that Mdula was arrested by his colleagues, especially Popcru members, must clearly show that there is zero tolerance against corruption.

He revealed that another warder was dismissed from work last year after the disciplinary committee found him guilty of misconduct. Madula is now serving his five-year term at the Nylstroom Prison.

News - Date: 21 March 2003

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