SEBOKENG. – The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) recently hosted a Correctional Services Imbizo at the Community Hall in Zone 14.

The department said that the Imbizo was aimed at familiarising stakeholders and community members with the concept of correctional supervision and promoting greater stakeholder and community participation in correctional matters.

The Imbizo provided a platform for various stakeholders to outline their roles, responsibilities and contributions towards correctional supervision, while strengthening cooperation in addressing issues affecting offenders, their rehabilitation and successful reintegration into society.

Stakeholders who participated included the following:

•  South African Police Service (SAPS),
• Department of Correctional Services,
• Department of Social Development (DSD),
• MASP, Indibano, Vaal Community in Action,
• Vaal Elderly, GBVF Brigades,
• Sedibeng Community Safety, EGov,
•  Siyabangena Patrollers,
• Memeza Patrollers and
• AVBOB.

Lieutenant Colonel Thembisa Mankayi represented Sebokeng SAPS and educated attendees on the role and involvement of the South African Police Service in correctional supervision, highlighting the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and other stakeholders in promoting safer communities.

Sergeant Khabonina Malindi also used the opportunity to market SAPS trainee opportunities. She provided attendees with information about the recruitment process and explained the steps to follow when applying for trainee 2026/2027 financial year posts.

On the other hand, community members were afforded an opportunity to raise questions, share comments, voice concerns and lodge complaints. This interactive engagement encouraged open communication and ensured that community members could actively participate in discussions concerning correctional matters.

Sebokeng Station Commander, Brigadier Thembekile Kubone, commended the Department of Correctional Services for creating a platform that brings together government departments, community organisations and other stakeholders.

Sebokeng SAPS appreciated the opportunity to participate in this important engagement.

He further encouraged community members to remain actively involved in initiatives that promote accountability, social responsibility and safer communities.

Police spokesperson, Sergeant Nthabiseng Mokhachane said that the Sebokeng SAPS appreciated the opportunity to participate in this important engagement and remains committed to strengthening partnerships with stakeholders and the community in the pursuit of safer communities.