Women in uniform sweep Bethal Correctional Centre clean
A team of around 50 officials raided the cells of women offenders at the Bethal Correctional Centre on August 8.
Female officials with the Department of Correctional Services (DCS), Bethal Management Area, partnered with the female SAPS’s colleagues and the Department of Community Safety, Security and Liaison (DCSSL) to build momentum for Women’s Month.
The multidisciplinary team of around 50 women gathered at the Bethal Police Station on August 8 for a briefing before starting the operation.
They did a search and seizure at the Bethal Correctional Centre women’s section and pounced on all four communal cells and 16 single cells in the section, searching more than 130 offenders sentenced and awaiting trial. The officials found three pairs of scissors, a cable charger, headsets, a syringe and a tin opener.
Brigadier Winnie Mavuso, the district commissioner of the SAPS, addressed the officials at a parade after the operation and encouraged them to remain committed to their duties.
“We value the partnership with other law enforcers, and hope it will be useful to each of us because it is important to work together to ensure the safety and security of people in this country,” said Mavuso.
SAPS officers raid women’s cells at the Bethal Correctional Centre. Photo: Supplied
After the parade, management had a debriefing to assess the day.
The area commissioner of Bethal Management Area, Abel Mashaba, emphasised the necessity for enhancing interdependence amongst the stakeholders. He outlined the DCS’ contributions to the community that might also benefit all the stakeholders.
He made an example of the labour that the DCS could provide through parolees and probationers, and said the relationship could benefit the DCS through the services of other institutions.
“This is an interdependent relationship meant to benefit all of us. Let us all work together to ensure this partnership makes our work easy,” said Mashaba.
Swanje Wright, DCSSL chief inspector, said she was content with the partnership, “It is good to have insight into sister departments,” said Wright.
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