Oscar Pistorius has 'Maximum Security Cell Ready for Him at Prison'

A prison cell has been prepared for Oscar Pistorius at one of South Africa's toughest jails, say South African media reports.

Should the fallen track idol get a custodial sentence on Tuesday (21 October), then he shall have a convicted murderer and drug dealer as his closest companion.

Preparations have been made to cater for the special needs of Pistorius at Pretoria Central Prison in its maximum security wing, reported South African media.

He would be detained in the wing with only six other inmates, who are secluded from the general population.

Unfortunately for Pistorius, Pretoria Central Prison has a reputation as one of the worst penitentiaries in the country. Overcrowding, violence and disease are problems there, which were all raised by an expert witness as reasons why Pistorius should get a non-custodial sentence.

Conditions in jails have been the focus of attention during the late stages of Pistorius' trial and sentencing. He would at serious risk of rape and diseases such as as HIV/AIDS claimed his defence lawyer Barry Roux.

Prosecutor Gerrie Nel has demanded a 10 year prison sentence for the paralympian track star. Officials controversially recommended he serve three years under house arrest with community service.

However, prison officials have denied planning in advance for Pistorius' arrival. Refuting the claim, a justice department spokesman branded reports "irresponsible."

Mthunzi Mhaga said: "Any insinuation that the department has prepared a cell to incarcerate anyone who has not yet been sentenced to a jail term is both malicious and irresponsible."

Pistorius will be sentenced on 21 October for shooting dead girlfriend Reeva Steenkamp on Valentine's Day 2013. He has been convicted of culpable homicide and two firearms charges.