PAROLEES FOUND IN VIOLATION
A SURPRISE monitoring operation conducted by the Department of Correctional Services uncovered two parolees who violated their release conditions.
The initiative, which took place Tuesday night in Mitchells Plain, was spearheaded by National Commissioner of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) Makgothi Thobakgale, and focused on individuals sentenced for gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide-related offenses.
Thobakgale indicated that the purpose of the checks was to ensure parolees adhered to their rigorous release conditions and to reassure the public of the close supervision of offenders.
During the visit, Thobakgale informed reporters that they were checking in on over 40 parolees, organized into four teams on the ground.
He stated: “This area was selected due to the significant number of rapes occurring here.
“The commissioner reported that two parolees were found outside their homes when the teams arrived, which constituted a breach of their conditions.
“We informed them that they should not be outside their yard at this hour. One claimed he went to church.
“However, as I explained, you must seek permission, and we need to know your whereabouts at all times.”
Despite these violations, Thobakgale expressed encouragement upon finding all parolees sober.
He remarked: “This is significant, as many crimes are associated with alcohol and substance abuse. It indicates that at least some conditions are being followed.”
He further noted that parole conditions differ based on the offender’s circumstances.
“Some parolees are prohibited from leaving their yard without explicit approval from a parole officer. If they attend church, they must present a letter from the institution. If they are employed, they must provide a letter from their employer. The key principle is that we need to know their location at all times. Any changes to their conditions must be communicated to us for approval,” he elaborated.
“These individuals have committed offenses that endanger the safety of women and children. It is crucial that they adhere to their conditions; otherwise, we will revoke their parole and reinstate them in correctional facilities.”