The Department of Correctional Services has released a detailed statement explaining the events surrounding the death of inmate Quinton Fortuin at Goodwood Correctional Centre.
Corrections Dept details what led to the death of Quinton Fortuin
The incident occurred on 16 February 2025, and has since been under internal and external investigation.
Fortuin was a remand detainee, meaning he was in custody awaiting trial. He had been admitted to the facility in August 2024 and was facing serious criminal charges. These included three counts of murder, two counts of attempted murder, armed robbery, and possession of illegal firearms and ammunition.
According to the department, his criminal history dates back to 2007 and involved multiple violent offenses and parole violations.
On the morning of the incident, during a routine procedure where inmates are let out of their cells and counted, Fortuin initially stayed behind. He joined the line only after being called and took a position at the back.
At approximately 08:10, he suddenly attacked a correctional officer, Lwandile Manise, using a sharpened object. The department described the attack as unprovoked.
Manise sustained serious injuries, including a broken arm, and was taken to hospital.
Other prison officers quickly responded and used force to restrain Fortuin. During this process, Fortuin was injured.
He was taken to Karl Bremer Hospital and was declared dead shortly after midday. A post-mortem revealed that he died from multiple blunt force injuries, which means he was hit many times with force.
Western Cape SAPS is conducting a criminal investigation into his death
Goodwood Prison officers suspension: Here’s what we know
Regarding accountability, the Department confirmed that four officials have been suspended. Two of them, Lamla Shumane and Xolani Matshoba, had previously been suspended but were reassigned before being suspended again.
They are now joined by Qhama Kweleta and Thembisa Mninzi, who remain on suspension. More officials might face disciplinary action as the department continues its internal review.
The prison’s conditions have also come under scrutiny.
Goodwood Correctional Centre is designed to hold 1,651 people but is currently housing over 2,400, including both awaiting-trial detainees and sentenced inmates.
That’s a 150% occupancy rate.
There are only 302 staff members, meaning a very high number of inmates per officer. This imbalance raises safety concerns for both staff and inmates.
The National Commissioner said that the situation calls for a review of how the facility is managed.
“We are committed to taking corrective steps,” the Commissioner said, adding that wellness support will be offered to staff to improve morale and safety.
He concluded by reaffirming the department’s support for the ongoing police investigation and promised that any misconduct would be dealt with through proper disciplinary channels.