Early parole for 166 offenders at Ncome Correctional Centre
Ncome Correctional Services Area Commissioner Mr AB Gina has given consideration to a total number of 166 offenders who meet the criteria for early parole
The Department of Correctional Services has decided to grant 19,000 offenders early parole to reduce overcrowding in correctional facilities and ensure better ventilation during the coronavirus pandemic.
The department would like to emphasise that only prisoners convicted of ‘petty’ crimes like house theft and house robbery with no aggravation were considered, and under no circumstances were perpetrators of crimes like murder, women and child abuse, or robbery with aggravated circumstances considered for the early Parole Dispensation.
Ncome Correctional Services Area Commissioner Mr AB Gina has given consideration to a total number of 166 offenders who meet the criteria for early parole. Gina furthermore stated that some of those offenders are still at the correctional centre due to lack of a support system from their families, while others are foreign nationals and will be released as soon as the Covid-19 regulations allow them to travel.
“Rehabilitation of offenders is a societal challenge and not only the problem of Correctional Services. If we work together to support our offenders, we will definitely reduce re-offending and crime in general,” said Gina. He also pleaded with families and community members to assist in assuring that these offenders do not commit another crime. The Department of Correctional Services, in conjunction with the South African Police Service (SAPS), is currently liaising with different community leaders, including traditional leadership and councillors, to ensure that communities live in safe and secure areas.
The area commissioner assures the community that Ncome Correctional Centre will continue to protect their loved ones and ensure that no fatalities occur.
“As much as some of our officials have tested positive, Ncome Management Area is continuously ensuring that our officials and offenders receive the necessary support and that cells, offices and state vehicles are continuously sanitized to ensure the safety of all,” he concluded.
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