Jail is no ‘jol’
One of the parolees who was released from jail after serving more than 15 years, is warning youngsters in Tembisa and the surrounding areas to not commit crime.
Sipho Hlezi said jail is a difficult and painful place to be.
He was first arrested in 1992 for different crimes, including car hijackings. He served 22 years in jail.
“I am pleading with youngsters to not commit crime. There is no life in jail. I wanted to live the high life through crime, but look at me now. I have lost nearly everything in life,” he said.
He added that instead of committing crime, the youth should concentrate on their education.
“Education will liberate you and make you a better person in life,” he added.
When asked what he plans to do with his life now that he is out on parole, he said it is difficult to look for a job because he does not have money for transport.
“I am stranded at the moment. But I am appealing to the business community to help me with money to start my own business. I learnt carpentry, sewing and welding in jail, but with a criminal record, companies do not want to hire former prisoners. All I need is a good Samaritan to help me to start my own business,” he said.
