Parole process underway

* Over a period of 30 days, 2 280 prisoners were released on parole, and SA's Correctional Services Department hopes about 19 000 more will be released in the next month. None of those released had re-offended. Department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said the process to release inmates on parole – in line with plans to reduce overcrowding in prisons to combat the coronavirus pandemic – started on 20 May. The department hoped to have all estimated 19 000 qualifying parolees assessed and/or released by 17 July, Nxumalo added.