Two absconded parolees, Ben Mazibuko (73) and Mandisa Buthelezi (39), were re-arrested on December 31 during a joint tracing operation conducted by Bethal SAPS and Bethal Community Corrections.

The operation was led by Acting Area Commissioner Mzwamakhaya Dlepu, together with Lieutenant Colonel Tsekiso Tseole, the Bethal Station Commander.

It focused on tracing parolees who had violated their parole conditions and absconded. Absconding from parole constitutes a serious violation and results in the issuing of a warrant of arrest.

Once apprehended, parolees are returned to correctional facilities to serve the remainder of their original sentences, with the possibility of facing additional penalties.

The operation was initiated by the Department of Correctional Services to send a clear message that violations of parole conditions will not be tolerated, and that offenders will be actively traced and returned to prison to complete their sentences.

During the operation, several residences linked to absconded parolees were visited. As a result, the two parolees were successfully traced, re-arrested, and returned to prison to serve the remainder of their original sentences.

The acting area commissioner expressed appreciation to all members who participated in the joint operation and thanked SAPS for their continued commitment to maintaining safety and security within communities.

The Acting Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Mpumalanga, Major General Dr Zeph Mkhwanazi, also welcomed and commended the collaboration between SAPS and the Department of Correctional Services, noting that joint operations continue to yield positive results and play a vital role in strengthening partnerships within the security cluster.