Cape Town – Police in Eastern Cape have launched a manhunt after five prisoners awaiting trial allegedly escaped from the back of a police vehicle while in transit from the court to the Wellington Correctional facility.
In a statement, police spokesperson Colonel Priscilla Naidu said the incident happened at around 16:00 on Tuesday, June 22.
“Qumbu police officers were transporting prisoners back to prison when they heard a bang at the back door of the van. When they stopped, they were informed by motorists that the prisoners were escaping. The incident took place on the Nqadu Road,” said Naidu.
The details of the escapees were as follows:
Malixole Mkhutyukelwa (22) -charged for Contravention of Protection Order and assault GBH.
Mkhanyisi Yonwaba Mkhumbuzi (23) – charged for Rape
Msindisi Rawuzela (28) – charged for Stock Theft
Aphiwe Jikingqina (32) – charged for Robbery
Masixole Baleni (27) – charged for attempted murder
Naidu said that cases of escaping from lawful custody were opened at SAPS Madeira and were under investigation.
An investigation was also under way, she said.
Police were appealing to the communities to assist them in tracing the escapees and anyone with information may contact SAPS Madeira, Detective Warrant Officer Maliwa Ayanda on 071 608 6591 or Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or their nearest police station.
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Composed by Betha Madhomu
