Publication

Given the reliance on various kinds of electric shock devices in South Africa’s prisons, this brief 1) describes these tools and the harmful medical effects associated with their use; 2) highlights the use and misuse of the devices in correctional institutions in South Africa; and 3) outlines how and why this equipment is in breach of local, regional and international standards. Finally, the text’s authors outline what changes and prohibitions South African official should adopt in relation to electric shock equipment, including the types of equipment that are permissible, the monitoring of the use of force in prisons, and the training prison staff should receive.