Prison Journalism: The Transformation: A Prison Tale of Identity and BrotherhoodDavid van Nek was incarcerated in Pollsmoor Correctional Centre from 2013 until 2015 and participated in the restorative justice programme.
by David van Nek
14-07-2023 14:20
in Prison Journalism
A Prison Tale of Identity and Brotherhood Image by unsplash
In prison, staying occupied and showcasing talents is vital for survival. Soccer and rugby revealed hidden talents among us, setting the stage for significant events that shaped my time behind bars. Assigned as an office block cleaner by the Case Management Committees (CMC) staff, I joined two fellow inmates in the same room. Our duty involved cleaning officers' offices, unaware that it would unveil an unforeseen path before me.
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Prison: A World of Theft and Suspicion Among the staff at the CMC, there was a particular lady who took a liking to me from the very first day. She would be the one to provide us with the rules and regulations of the office block. During lunchtime, a time when money spoke volumes, calls would come in from those with financial means. The first question posed was whether we were ouens' or Franse.' It was at this point that I decided to engage with individuals from the 28's, aspiring to be one of their members. As I carried out my duties within the office block, I couldn't help but notice the careless nature of one of the captains. It was then that a thought crossed my mind-to take advantage of this opportunity.
I began by stealing a phone charger, which I sold for R200. Emboldened by my success, I took the risk of stealing a small phone as well, this time fetching R300. Trust was scarce within those walls, leaving me wary even of my fellow cleaners. It was during this time that thoughts of the lady from the CMC weighed on my mind. With newfound money, I had to exercise caution. Seeking advice from another inmate, I decided to wrap the money in plastic and conceal it in the most unlikely place-my backside. This was my own secret treasure, bringing a sense of joy and contentment. However, doubts still lingered about the trustworthiness of the lady at the CMC.
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From Newcomer to Sundown One of the inmates in our room had the fortune of receiving regular visits from his family. Seizing an opportunity, I struck up a conversation with him. Within that same week, I made a call to his brother, informing him that his younger sibling would arrive for a visit carrying R510 in cash. Thankfully, he agreed to the arrangement. After the visit, he returned with a receipt, a proof of my newfound wealth. With this in hand, I took my first steps towards the 28's. The following week, a soccer tournament became the stage for an important turning point. All the 28's were set to join the camp, and each member would share their story and responsibilities with the newcomers. The highest-ranking member of the 28's would then impart the rules of conduct and behavior.
It was a transformative moment-I was no longer a Frans'; I had become an esteemed member of the 28's. The bond that followed was one of brotherhood, and the news of my affiliation would reach the 26's and 27's through an official report. As a lasting symbol, I bear the mark of the 28's with a tattoo on my left foot. This significant shift occurred on a Friday, and when I returned to work the following Monday, one of the captains summoned me. In a gesture that spoke volumes, he displayed the sign of the 28's, declaring, Now you are a Sundown. With pride and conviction, I responded, Sundown, Captain.
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This tale of my journey within the prison system exemplifies the transformative power of circumstances and personal choices. From humble beginnings as an office block cleaner, I navigated a world of opportunities and risks. The favor of the CMC staff and the unexpected financial gains propelled me towards a desire for higher status and recognition among the 28's. Yet, the road to acceptance required cunning, trust, and calculated decisions. Finally embracing the role of a Sundown, I found solace in the brotherhood and the shared purpose that defined this newfound identity. These experiences, marked by stolen treasures, moments of doubt, and ultimately the affirmation of belonging, shaped my prison journey in ways I could never have anticipated.
DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received
RESTORE is a NGO based in Cape Town, South Africa providing inmates at Pollsmoor Prison with restorative justice opportunities.
Do you have any question you would like to ask our prison journalists, WhatsApp us on 060 011 0211
Do you have contact with a prison inmate who would like to write for The South African website?
If so, send an email to info@thesouthafrican.com or a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
You can also follow @TheSAnews on Twitter and The South African on Facebook to get the latest prisoner journalism articles.
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Prison Journalism: The Transformation: A Prison Tale of Identity and BrotherhoodDavid van Nek was incarcerated in Pollsmoor Correctional Centre from 2013 until 2015 and participated in the restorative justice programme.
