JICS conducts announced and unannounced inspections of correctional facilities. Each correctional centre is inspected at least once in a two year cycle. Some centres are earmarked for annual inspections for various reasons. JICS rates each centre either “Good”, “Satisfactory or “Unsatisfactory”, makes recommendations and reports on its findings to Parliament and the Minister of Correctional Services. JICS’s recommendations are not binding.
At JICS, we take full commitment to protecting and promoting the human rights of correctional centre detainees seriously. We have been entrusted with some of the most substantial responsibilities in the management of reparative justice and we will always strive to fulfill this mission to the highest standards of transparency and ethical conduct.
The Correctional Services Act requires DCS to report all deaths in correctional facilities, uses of force, segregations and uses of mechanical restraints to JICS. JICS’s Mandatory Unit considers and records these reports and may choose to open investigations into these incidents. Inmates may also appeal segregation or the use of mechanical restraints to the Inspecting Judge, whom the Act requires to decide thereon within 72 hours.
Manage correctional facilities in accordance with rigorous standards of transparency, accountability, and ethical practice. Among its chief responsibilities, JICS must monitor all deaths within correctional facilities, and evaluate the use of mechanical restraints and segregation of inmates. In all of its actions, JICS aims to foster a correctional environment that prioritises human rights and dignity.
In essence, the responsibilities undertaken by JICS are pivotal in creating a correctional environment that adheres to legal, ethical, and humanitarian standards. By managing deaths, recording complaints, overseeing segregation, investigating restraints, and evaluating the use of force, JICS underscores its commitment to fostering a system that prioritises the welfare and dignity of all individuals under its purview.
The mandate of JICS is to inspect or arrange for the inspection of correctional centres and remand detention facilities in order to report on the treatment of inmates in correctional centres and on conditions and any corrupt or dishonest practices in correctional centres and remand detention facilities.
Corporate Services Directorate comprises of three Sub-Directorates, namely, Human Resources, Information Technology, and Communications & Media. It is through these components that the Unit is able to provide the much-needed resources and functions to support JICS’s pursuit of outcomes.
JICS manages public services to resolve disputes within correctional facilities, ensuring accessible support and collaborating with other departments to uphold inmates' human dignity.
Legal services offer professional guidance and representation to address various legal needs for individuals and organizations.
JICS is an independent oversight body tasked with overseeing the correctional operations of the Department of Correctional Services and protecting the rights of all incarcerated persons. JICS reports to the Parliamentary Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services and the Minister of Correctional Services.
349 Witch-Hazel Avenue, Eco-Origin Park – Block C3, Highveld, Centurion, 0157
Email: Complaints@jics.gov.za
Phone: (012) 321 0303