Bornface Banks, a Zimbabwean man, has landed in trouble with South Africa’s Department of Correctional Services following his identification as the individual featured in a viral video boasting about the comfortable life inside a South African prison.
The video sparked outrage among many South Africans who criticized the department for allegedly providing prisoners with luxuries. Banks, who is currently detained at the Goodwood Correctional Centre on suspicion of kidnapping, faces repercussions for possessing contraband after authorities confiscated the cellphone he used to record the video.
In the widely circulated footage, Banks mocks those responsible for his imprisonment, asserting that rather than endure hardship, he enjoys amenities such as three daily meals and educational opportunities. His taunting remarks drew sharp criticism, prompting Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo to condemn Banks’ actions and confirm that mobile phones are prohibited in correctional facilities. Nxumalo emphasized that the unauthorized use of such devices constitutes a punishable offense.
“The Department of Correctional Services is deeply disturbed by this behavior and will take decisive action,” Nxumalo stated.
Authorities have indicated that Banks will face disciplinary measures for his conduct, underscoring the stringent regulations concerning contraband within South African prisons.
In other news – OR Tambo airport rhino horn seizure results in 15-year jail terms for two men
Two suspects caught with rhino horns valued at R2.9m in 2018 were sentenced on Monday to effective jail terms of 15 years each by the Kempton Park regional court.
Ntsako Miaas Maluleke, 37, and Phanuel Vutivi Chabalala, 36, were found guilty of receiving, possessing, transporting, and exporting rhino horns, contravening the National Environmental Management Biodiversity Act. Read More
