Police have, in a jaw-dropping bust, arrested Superintendent Joshua Joseph, the Deputy Officer in Charge at Gaborone’s First Offenders prison facility, on suspicion of running a contraband smuggling operation.
The 42-year-old prison boss from Dukwi village, was arrested early Tuesday morning at his home, where police officers found a large stash of illegal items allegedly destined for inmates.
Police were stunned to find a 20litre container filled with dagga, as well as multiple cellphones, headsets, phone chargers, and cigarettes.
It is alleged that these items were part of a sophisticated smuggling network that Joseph allegedly orchestrated from within the prison walls.
Law enforcement insiders claim Joseph’s seniority gave him unprecedented access and control, allowing him to bypass standard security checks with ease.
“Finally, he has been arrested,” a police insider commented. “He’s been involved in this for a while, but our hands together with those of his juniors were tied because of his seniority. His position allowed him to manipulate security measures, making it challenging for junior officers to monitor him closely.”
Despite the tight security at prisons, it is believe Joseph exploited his position to bypass checks, facilitating a lucrative smuggling operation that fueled an underground market within the facility.
The discovery of dagga in such large quantities, along with the electronic devices and other prohibited items, raised serious concerns about the extent of contraband circulation and potential links to organized crime networks.
When contacted for comment, the prison’s Public Relations office redirected inquiries to the police, who asked to be given more time to compile details.
Last year the then Prisons Commissioner, Dinah Marathe told members of the media that there was a concern over high level of contraband smuggling into their facilitities. She confirmed that two officers were dismissed for similar offences.
