Correctional Officers Testify Before Commission on Inmate Assault Incident at Maseru Central Correctional Institution

Correctional Officer Lehlohonolo Moabi, along with Officers Mothabeng, Mokoloko, and Mokhethi, admitted to entering the cell of inmate Tlotliso Bereng during a search conducted at the Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI) on December 22, 2023. However, Moabi, during his initial testimony before the Commission of Inquiry, had failed to disclose his presence in Bereng’s cell, later explaining that he had forgotten due to the large number of cells he entered that day.

The search, which resulted in a violent altercation, left several inmates injured, with Bereng tragically paralysed. The incident has become the subject of an investigation by the Commission of Inquiry, which aims to uncover the circumstances surrounding the injuries sustained by the inmates and whether prison officers were responsible for the assaults.

During the hearing, the Commission’s Chairperson, Justice Realeboha Mathaba, confronted Moabi with footage that clearly showed him and the other officers entering Bereng’s cell. Moabi admitted to entering the cell but claimed he did not intentionally withhold this information, stating, “I forgot due to the number of cells I entered at the maximum block.” He did not dispute his presence but maintained that he had no recollection of specifically being in Bereng’s cell during the earlier stages of the inquiry.

Justice Mathaba pressed Moabi further, asking whether he acknowledged that Bereng was unharmed when he was taken out of his cell for the search and returned still active, according to the footage. The Chairperson pointed out that Officers Mothabeng and Mokoloko were seen leaving Bereng in a stable condition, implying that the injury must have occurred after this point.

“I am not saying Mothabeng and Mokoloko did not assault Bereng,” Mathaba emphasized, directing attention to the fact that Moabi and Mokhethi were the last to enter the cell, leaving no other individuals as suspects in the alleged assault. In response, Moabi expressed shame and remorse for his actions, stating that he was disturbed after viewing the footage showing inmates being brutally assaulted during the search.

Despite Moabi’s acknowledgment, all four officers—Moabi, Mothabeng, Mokoloko, and Mokhethi—denied physically assaulting Bereng. They admitted to being present in his cell during the search but maintained their innocence regarding the assault that led to his paralysis.

In his own testimony, Bereng, who has since been released from prison due to his deteriorating health condition, recounted the events of the search. He stated that he did not recognize the officers who attacked him, as they were wearing masks, and he was relatively new to the institution at the time. The attack left him paralyzed, effectively ending his time at the correctional facility.

Bereng, who holds an Honours Degree in Information Technology, has since channeled his focus into his tech company, Info Tech Galaxy, where he repairs phones, computers, and designs websites. Despite his condition, he continues to pursue a career in technology, finding ways to rebuild his life post-incarceration.

The Commission’s investigation continues as it seeks to determine accountability for the violent incident that occurred at MCCI. The testimonies of the correctional officers, along with the footage, are critical pieces of evidence in the ongoing inquiry. Justice Mathaba has underscored the importance of transparency and responsibility, as the Commission works toward ensuring justice for Bereng and other inmates affected by the search.