The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has clarified that more than 8,300 parolees have absconded since 2021, rejecting claims that it cannot account for nearly 28,000 high-risk parolees.
The department said figures relating to parolees and escaped inmates who were not traced before 1994 are not included in its latest statistics, resulting in discrepancies between current records and historical data.
The issue was discussed on Tuesday when the department appeared before Parliament’s portfolio committee following an investigative report by amaBhungane alleging that 27,797 high-risk parolees who had absconded could not be accounted for.
Correctional Services Explains Difference In Parolee Numbers
According to the department, some individuals listed as absconders may have died but remain recorded as such because official death certificates have not been obtained.
Officials said this contributes to inflated figures within the system and affects the accuracy of long-term records.
Deputy Commissioner for Community Corrections Gustav Wilson told the committee that historical factors also play a role in the discrepancy.
“There was no tracing done by the department. Absconders prior to 1994 and parolees were not supervised from 1991 to 1994.”
Wilson added that a significant portion of the data in question dates back several decades.
Electronic Tagging Remains Under Consideration
Correctional Services Minister Pieter Groenewald said the department is exploring additional measures to reduce the number of parolees who abscond, including the possible introduction of electronic monitoring devices.
However, Groenewald indicated that legal challenges currently stand in the way of implementing electronic tagging.
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“I said if I could have my way, because we have financial constraints, is that if someone wants to go on parole that he or she must pay for the electronic band themselves.”
The minister said discussions on electronic monitoring are continuing as the department considers ways to strengthen parole supervision and improve offender tracking.
