The instructor, who led the search team at Maseru Central Correctional Institution (MCCI) was alone and could not control the recruits as there were many of them.

This was said by Correctional Officer Leboneng Moqecho when testifying before the Commission of Inquiry on the escape of inmates, on the search exercise that was conducted at MCCI on December 22, 2023 which resulted in the assault of inmates, leaving one paralysed.

Mr. Maqecho said he was surprised that Chief Officer Rats'ele, who led the search, was working alone as no Senior Officers from MCCI were assigned to assist him.

He said he believes the recruits ended up assaulting inmates as they were aware that there was not enough supervision, indicating that he was not surprised when Chief Officer Rats'ele was not certain on who he assigned where for the search.

He therefore appealed to the Commission to be lenient if it decides to punish recruits but make decisions starting from the top as the recruits perform their duty under guidance from senior officers.

Meanwhile a number of witnesses disclosed that Chief Officer Rats'ele was seen collecting the sticks from Recruits which they used to assault inmates and that he was failing to control them as they were many.

The recruits are continuing to testify before the Commission on the events of December 22, last year.