SA activists 'safe' in Israeli prison

South African nationals who participated in the Global Sumud Flotilla have reportedly been transferred to a prison in the Negev desert, following their abduction by Israeli naval forces after the flotilla was intercepted in international waters.

The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) said the group of South Africans who are detained in Israel is reportedly safe.

Dirco spokesperson Chrispin Phiri said: "The delegation has confirmed the detainees are in good health and in high spirits. The necessary procedures for their safe passage and return home to SA are advancing steadily."

Those detained are Nkosi Zwelivelile 'Mandla' Mandela, Zukiswa Wanner, Dr Fatima Hendricks, Zaheera Soomar, Carrie Shelver, and Reaz Moola, along with activists from various countries.

The prison is one of Israel's largest detention facilities. It has historically been used to hold Palestinian political prisoners and security detainees.

Human rights organisations have repeatedly condemned the prison for what they describe as systematic abuse, severe overcrowding, and inhumane living conditions.

Allegations about the prison include, severe overcrowding and poor shelter conditions, inadequate sanitation, hygiene, and health care, harsh regimes and deprivation of basic necessities.

Case of physical violence, beatings, torture, and ill-treatment after also been reported, and in some cases the denial of medical care and death.

Israeli National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir defended the alleged treatment of the flotilla detainees.

He said: "As I promised, those who joined the (Sumud Freedom) flotilla supporting terrorism are receiving the same treatment as saboteurs in the Negev camp."