Dare to imagine a place where freedom ends and confinement begins. This is Westville Prison. It is one of South Africa’s largest prisons. Westville Prison stands on the outskirts of Westville near Durban. It’s the only prison within the Durban area itself.
In 2005, Westville Prison held around 40000 inmates. It is located on the southern edge of Westville, in Dawncliffe. Harry Gwala Road leads to its entrance. Between the prison and Westville is a residential complex. This is for wardens and prison staff. Roosfontein Nature Reserve acts as a buffer zone around the prison.
Westville Prison has seen its share of escapes. One notable escape was that of Thozamile Taki. He was known as the sugarcane serial killer. On February 21 2010, Taki and eight others broke out. They were awaiting trial. They were housed in the Medium “A” section. The escapees sawed through a steel door and grill gates. By March 7 2010, three escapees were caught. One was killed by police.
Westville Prison has also seen suicides. João Rendeiro was a Portuguese fugitive banker. He was sentenced to 10 years for tax evasion, fraud and money laundering. He committed suicide here.
Westville Prison stands as a stark reminder of justice and its consequences. It is a place of confinement. Yet, it is also a place of reflection for society. It makes one consider crime, punishment and rehabilitation. The prison remains a significant landmark in Durban. Its history is filled with dramatic events. Escapes and suicides mark its past. Today, Westville Prison continues to function as a major correctional facility. It is a key part of South Africa’s justice system.