Some of the weapons smuggled into prison that prisoners (gangs) use to stab each other. It is believed most of these items are brought in by prison authorities themselves. In the bags and containers are different kinds of illicit drugs confiscated by the authorities during routine search conducted in the cells. Other major concerns within the South African Prison system include the following HIV/AIDS seem to be a serious health burden. Most of those suffering from HIV/AIDS cannot afford treatment and are not taking any proper treatment while in prison. This problem has been exacerbated by the practice of sodomy. The latter is difficult to control as victims are reluctant and scared to report perpetrators. It was also observed that in almost all the institutions the approved post establishments were never filled even though there is great need for more manpower. This leaves fewer personnel to attend to prisoners and impacts on the rehabilitation programmes and the moral of the officials. Human Resources are of paramount importance in accomplishing the goals of any correctional agency. They will make their optimum contribution if supported by effective personnel development opportunities and positive working conditions. Staff should also have the opportunity to participate in the formulation of policies related to both programs and administration. Staff organisations should be involved in furthering this process and correctional agencies must be seen to be accountable. They should be subject to regular, independent and public assessment Related to the problem of shortage of staff, is the marked shortage of professional care givers, especially in the social sector. Professionals such as psychologists, social workers, probationers, psychiatrists etc are very few in most of the prisons visited. Very few prisons had full time doctors and the nurses were very few compared to the number of prisoners. 56