Johannesburg – The Department of Correctional Services has announced that it now holds full management and operational authority over the Mangaung Correctional Centre, which is currently referred to as Grootvlei Maximum Correctional Centre.
The facility became infamous after convicted murderer and rapist Thabo Bester escaped in May 2022 by faking his death in a prison fire and fleeing while disguised as a guard.
His escape has evolved into one of South Africa’s most notorious prison scandals, leading the government to assume control of the facility.
Bester was captured in Tanzania in April 2023, after nearly a year on the run.
At the time of his arrest, he was with his girlfriend, Dr. Nandipha Magudumana, and an associate from Mozambique.
Both Bester and Magudumana are currently incarcerated.
The escape prompted the Department of Correctional Services to take charge of the prison, which was previously operated by G4S, a British private security firm, under a 25-year contract.
Today, Wednesday, July 1, 2026, Correctional Services Spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo announced the changeover.
“This transition culminates the end of a 25-year Public-Private Partnership agreement between the Department and Bloemfontein Correctional Contracts, run by G4S, which concluded on June 30, 2026,” Nxumalo clarified.
He noted that operations at the facility are in accordance with the Correctional Services Act of 1998 (Act No. 111 of 1998), along with all pertinent policies, regulations, and operational standards governing correctional services in South Africa.
The facility will operate under the Grootvlei Management Area within the Free State/Northern Cape Region.
“It can be confirmed that the centre is fully operational, ensuring uninterrupted services and the safe, secure, and humane detention of inmates,” Nxumalo stated.
“This signifies the completion of extensive planning to ensure a smooth transition without disrupting the daily operations of the correctional centre.”
He emphasized that the direct management by the Department of Correctional Services reinstates the government’s commitment to a correctional system that upholds constitutional values, supports rehabilitation and reintegration, and prioritizes public safety as a fundamental mandate.
