The Hidden Meanings Behind The Numbers Gang Signs and Tattoos
Learn about the symbolic power of Numbers gang signs and tattoos, how they identify allegiance, mark rank, and reinforce the strict codes within prison gangs.
The Numbers gangs are among South Africa’s most notorious prison-based groups, split mainly into the 26s, 27s, and 28s. Each gang has its own strict codes, hierarchy, and purpose. Gang signs and tattoos play a central role in communicating a member’s rank, loyalty, and gang affiliation.
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Symbolism and Purpose of the 26, 27, and 28 Numbers Gang Signs Tattoos
Identification of Affiliation
Tattoos act as visible markers of whether someone belongs to the 26s, 27s, or 28s.
Certain numbers (26, 27, 28) or symbols linked to these gangs are used to signal allegiance.
Hierarchy and Rank
Tattoos often indicate a member’s status within the gang’s structure. For example, higher-ranking members might carry more elaborate or symbolic designs.
Placement of tattoos can also carry meaning—such as marks on the chest, arms, or face showing progression through the gang’s ranks.
Storytelling and History
Many tattoos represent a member’s personal journey, including acts of violence, time spent in prison, or initiation rites.
They act as a “record” of achievements within the gang.
Fear and Intimidation
Tattoos project power and danger, creating an immediate warning to others.
In prison and on the outside, these marks signal that the person is backed by the Numbers, deterring conflict.
Cultural and Spiritual Role
Beyond identification, tattoos are part of the rituals and traditions of the Numbers gangs.
They often carry symbolic references tied to the gang’s philosophy, myths, and codes.
The tattoos of the Numbers gangs are not simply decorative—they are a form of coded communication, identity, and loyalty that binds members to the gang’s rules. They also serve as a visual language of power in both prison and community environments, marking insiders and outsiders in a system where trust and reputation are crucial.
This blog post is for informational purposes only. It contains an excerpt from The Numbers Gang in South African Correctional Facilities: Reflections on Structures, Functions and Culture by Heinrich Veloen, published by UCT in 2022.
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