Prison Journalism: The Number Gang

The Number Gang is a criminal organization predominantly found in South African jails. From the very first day you get arrested, as you enter the police station, you will realize that the world you are about to enter is now different. Upon arrest, you are subjected to searches and may even be robbed of your belongings if you are not a gang member. Non-gang members are referred to as “Mbatha” in Xhosa or “Franse” in Afrikaans. To ensure safety, one must belong to one of the gangs, which are categorized into three groups: 26, 27, and 28. For first timers in jail, survival is particularly challenging.

Gang Hierarchy and Personal Curiosity

The Number Gang operates with a structured hierarchy, and leadership governs it. The more notorious you become, the higher your rank. During my incarceration in Pollsmoor, I was intrigued by the Number—not with the intention of joining, but to uncover its secrets.

Survival Strategies in Prison

In prison, survival options are limited. You can either be a gang member or a non-gang member with privileges. For instance, non-gang members who receive visits and gifts from their families, such as sugar, milk, deodorant, or cigarettes, may find themselves liked by gang members who aim to benefit from these goods, resulting in your belongings being shared half for you, half for the gang members.

Joining the Gang

Another survival strategy involves joining the gang, which demands dedication and perseverance. Membership is not easily granted; it comes with difficult initiation rites. Once in, there is no way out. Membership involves committing crimes even while in custody.

Earning Ranks and Respect

To attain a high rank within the gang, one must be bold and willing to take risks. Members who exhibit fearlessness and boldness are given the title “Gabadin.” To earn this title, one must be recruited and learn specific codes of conduct.

The Prison System and Gang Culture

Based on my experience, I conclude that the prison system itself inadvertently promotes gang culture. In Pollsmoor, each block has five cells, with one reserved for gang members. Rituals and recruitment activities occur in these designated spaces.

The Perpetuation of Gang Culture

The culture of the Number Gang is perpetuated in South African prisons, passed down through generations. However, the gang system does offer some benefits to wardens since inmates can control each other, maintaining peace and discipline. Gang members also regulate the movement of illegal items within the prison in a well-organized manner, viewing each other as brothers. Any infraction requires an explanation, and punishment can be severe, ranging from beatings to stabbings.

Risks and Consequences

Valuable items such as weed, cell phones, drugs, or cigarettes must be handled carefully. Non-gang members found with these items risk severe consequences, including death.

Adapting to Prison Life

Some inmates enter jail with no intention of joining a gang, but long sentences and the prevailing jail culture often led them to eventually become part of the Number, as it dominates the activities within the prison.

DISCLAIMER: Submission published as received

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

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