Former inmate wins damages for assault, torture

Olekile had originally sought P1.2 million citing torture, assault and stripping of his dignity during an attack by prison guards at Molepolole prison in 2012. The High Court ruled in his favour last year, limiting the award to P30,000 plus interest at the rate of 10 percent per annum from the day of judgment until full payment is made.

However, Commissioner of Prisons, Silas Motlalekgosi appealed the case to the Court of Appeal, asking for a reversal. In his appeal, Motlalekgosi, through Boineelo Mosweu of the Attorney General, pleaded with the CoA to set aside the judgment of the trial court, and that the judgment be entered in favour of the appellant and dismiss the action with costs.