Introduction
Rape culture in South African prisons is rife; reason being that there are gangs in South African prisons, and the Numbers Gang (called inombolo in IsiZulu) are the main culprits. Gangs currently present in South African prisons include ‘the 26’s’, ‘27’s’, ‘28’s’ as well as the Big 5’s. Then there are also Bulubexe’s (the non-gang members) who are not part of any gang or know anything about the gangs. Some people accept or join the gang number from outside the prison before incarceration. One does a tattoo on one shoulder; the 26 on the left and the 28 on the right-hand shoulder. To join the gang, one has to write a number or a design. If you have a sign of a woman, you are a 28-gang member and if you have a knife drawing then you are a 26-gang member. It differs like that, it happens that you’re incarcerated, and you have a sign and do not know the gang number protocols. To test you as part of the initiation, you’re expected to stab or kill another prisoner.
Silenced Suffering: Hidden Consequences
Male sexual abuse is a hidden yet pervasive issue in many South African prisons. Usually in South African prisons, to test you, they’d give you a knife and say in one/two days, you must stab a prisoner to show you are man enough and to see in which gang member would you “qualify” for. If you fail to do so, you’ll be told to sleep with a gang leader repeatedly – you are the gang leader’s “wife”. You end seeing that as the easier and better route than having to stab someone and then get killed afterwards. Prisoners then end up sleeping with each like that – some without consent, which will result in you having the title of so and so’s wife. Gang members, led by gang leaders, intimidate victims such that victims do not report incidents of rape. Wardens in prisons do not report cases, as they may also fear being murdered. Gang members will kill on behalf of their leader. They take disloyalty as an affront against their gang leaders.
Why Male Survivors in Prison Often Remain Silent
The reluctance of male prisoners to report sexual abuse or rape is largely influenced by societal expectations surrounding masculinity and vulnerability. In many cultures, men are expected to embody strength and resilience, making it challenging for survivors of sexual abuse to come forward. Fear of being perceived as weak or “feminized” within the hyper-masculine prison environment compounds this issue. It leads many men to suffer in silence rather than face potential ridicule or violence from other inmates or guards. The dynamics of power and control within prison walls make it challenging for survivors to trust that their claims will be handled with respect, confidentiality, or justice.
Health Risks
Sexual abuse in prison also brings with it severe health risks, including the spread of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) like HIV and hepatitis. In many correctional facilities, access to protection and healthcare resources is limited. This state of affairs increases the likelihood of disease transmission following sexual assaults. Prisoners who have contracted STIs due to abuse often face additional stigma and shame, deterring them further from seeking medical assistance. The overcrowded conditions in many prisons, alongside limited access to healthcare services, exacerbate the spread of infectious diseases.
Breaking the Silence
Breaking the silence surrounding male sexual abuse in prisons requires systemic change. Increased access to confidential reporting systems and mental health resources can provide a safe space for survivors to seek help. Raising awareness about male victimization in prisons challenges outdated gender norms and provides survivors with the validation needed to speak out.
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