Prison journalism: The secret behind the numbers and prison gangs

Prison journalism: The secret behind the numbers and prison gangsDean Mashimbwe, a Zimbabwean migrant residing in Cape Town, was incarcerated at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre from 2016 until 2017.

by Dean Mashimbwe

19-10-2023 08:36

in Prison Journalism

Dean Mashimbwe, a Zimbabwean migrant residing in Cape Town, was incarcerated at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre from 2016 until 2017.. Photo: Pixabay.

A prison gang is an inmate organization that operates within a prison system. It has a corporate structure and endures over time. Membership is exclusive, often requiring a lifelong commitment. The Numbers Gang, originally founded as a prison gang, boasts one of the most fearsome reputations in South Africa.

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While they originated in KwaZulu-Natal, it is believed that they have a presence in most of South Africa. The Numbers Gang has its own parliament, economy, legal system, and system of punishment. But what holds immense significance in gang life is Sabela, the secret language used to identify a member.

Sabela: The Secret Language of Prison Gangs However, Sabela is one of the first things a newcomer must memorize, along with the unwritten book detailing the gang's code of conduct. For instance, the recruitment process may involve a draad and glas informing the general with a statement like: Hom general, kom vol soos nou, dit is die jaar dat ons sal dorp toe gaan op n nompangela van n nood nommer. This indicates the need for the general's permission for recruitment. Glas refers to spectacles or binoculars, and these individuals observe and report on activities within the prison and the gang. A draad is a wire, and these individuals play a crucial role in communication and message delivery.

ALSO READ: Prison journalism: Reflections from Inside Prison

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Gang Codes and Symbols Symbols, gestures, signs, and tattoos are also integral to the code, encompassing non-verbal communication through facial expressions and posture. For instance, each Numbers gang has its unique salute for greeting one another, with the 28-gang using a thumb, index, and middle finger for their salute, the 27-gang employing the thumb and index finger, and the 26-gang raising the thumb.

Gang tattoos convey information about affiliation, status, and skills to other members of the prison population. Each member is required to have a tattoo displaying the number of the gang with which they are affiliated.

These elements constitute some of the aspects you'll encounter in the world of prison gangs.

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ALSO READ: Prison journalism: Visiting conditions in Pollsmoor prison

Should you wish to assist in the rehabilitation of former inmates and help put money into the pockets of those who have struggled to earn a living during and after incarceration, click HERE

DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

RESTORE is an NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa, providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.

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