Three parole violators were captured at the Zonderwater Correctional Services in Cullinan during a correctional services and law enforcement operation collaboration.
The arrests followed a high-impact tracing operation to track nearly 70 absconding offenders. Monica Makhane, the Correctional Services deputy regional commissioner (DRC) in Gauteng, spearheaded the September 19 operation.
According to Mashudu Mutamba, the communication officer at the Zonderwater Correctional Services, the operation saw collaborations between the Correctional Services, the Gauteng Traffic Police, Crime Prevention Wardens, the CPF and the SAPS to apprehend law evaders.
The operation began with a parade at the Baviaanspoort Correctional Services and primarily focused on parole violators in Refilwe, Stoffel Park, Mahube Village, Ext six and the surrounding areas of Mamelodi East.
The aim was to apprehend parolees and probationers who had violated their parole conditions, According to Makhane.
“Offenders are released from custody to Community Corrections, where they are expected to complete their remaining sentences in the community. However, not all of them comply with the stipulated parole conditions because they often lead to violations and re-offending.”
Makhane stressed that such behaviour necessitates returning these offenders to prison to serve the remainder of their sentences.
“The DRC believes prioritising community safety is essential in dealing with these offenders. Recidivism and absconding by offenders will not be tolerated because it puts the community and victims of crimes in an uncomfortable space,” said Makhane.
She applauded the dedication of the Department of Correctional Services and its law enforcement partners because they are vital for the success of these efforts.
This operation underscores the ongoing efforts of the Office of Community Corrections in managing parolees and probationers. With 27 absconders traced and three successfully re-arrested, it reflects a proactive approach to handling non-compliant individuals.
The marginal decrease in the overall caseload suggests the system is improving case management and ensuring absconders are brought to justice.
The Zonderwater acting area commissioner, Josias Mokobane, stressed that tracing absconders is crucial because unmonitored parole violators pose significant risks to public safety.
“Offenders at large might engage in further criminal activities and endanger communities”, said Mokobane.
However, Mokobane alluded that tracing these individuals poses challenges, including resource limitations, unpredictable movements, and the need for inter-departmental co-operation.
Additionally, Mokobane affirmed that correctional services will ensure compliance with parole conditions is adhered to because it maintains order and facilitates the successful reintegration of offenders into society.
During the operation, the community and family members were implored to report the absconders to the nearby Community Corrections office.
