Maseru
A commission of inquiry into the December 2023 escape of six inmates from the Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI) has revealed a deeply troubling culture of brutality, negligence and systemic failures within the Lesotho Correctional Service (LCS).
The commission’s report, signed in May 2025 and released in August, details the inhumane treatment of recaptured prisoners, security lapses that facilitated the escape and leadership deficiencies that perpetuate a climate of impunity.
The report, initiated following public outcry over the escape and subsequent death of Bokang Tsoako, paints a grim picture of the Maseru prison.
When the escapees were recaptured, they faced severe beatings, with officers allegedly having attacked defenceless inmates. When the inmates sought medical help, this was either delayed or denied.
The commission also revealed unmanned towers, broken security cameras and non-existent communication systems, all of what is suspected of having created a security threat where personnel in the control room were not well trained, the key post behind the Maximum facility was not manned, the gate was not manned and routine inspections were ignored.
The commission further highlighted political appointments within the LCS, impacting staff morale and undermining meritocratic practices. Disturbingly, recruits in training also allegedly assaulted inmates during the search operation of the escapees, with over 600 inmates having reported the assaults.
This report comes at a time when the correctional system in Lesotho is under increased scrutiny. It mentions that inmates were not allowed to have what is required of them as it relates to appropriate clothing, echoing concerns raised this week following a similar incident involving juvenile prisoners escaping, one of whom was apprehended by community members. The remaining escapees are still being sought. The community of Lesotho captured some of them but other community members are helping the escapees to run.
While the future of Lesotho’s correctional system hangs in the balance, the commission recommended, among others, investigations and evaluations of identified officers in the torture of inmates, an action that will serve as a call for accountability and systemic reform.
