Cape Town — The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed that Yanga Wayithi, the inmate who escaped from Pollsmoor Correctional Centre, has been re-arrested.
In a statement, the DCS said Wayithi had been apprehended at roughly 1:30am on Wednesday 12 February. He is back in custody at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre and is expected to face additional charges.
National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale offered praise to officials for their swift action to re-apprehend Wayithi.
“This arrest reaffirms our commitment to upholding the integrity of the correctional system. We remain resolute in ensuring that all offenders are held accountable and that public safety remains our top priority,” Thobakgale said.
The Department confirmed that a full-scale investigation is now underway to determine the circumstances surrounding Wayithi’s escape, and appropriate measures will be taken to ensure any lapses are identified.
“Additionally, security protocols at Ollsmoor Correctional Centre are under review to prevent similar incidents in the future,” the department concluded.
[UPDATE] Law enforcement officials have rearrested Yanga Wayithi who had escaped from the Pollsmoor Prison. He’s serving a 6-month sentence. He will now face additional charges for his escape. #eNCA https://t.co/D4mkpQWTNd pic.twitter.com/RADFkBAcwx
— Silindelo Masikane (@Sli_Masikane) February 12, 2025
According to The Citizen, the DCS appeared before the Committee on Tuesday to reveal its action plan which it was forced to draw up by the Public Protector.
This comes after Thabo Bester escaped from the Mangaung Correctional Centre in 2022. The department was forced to revise its inmate monitoring strategies. DCS officials acknowledged that privately-run prisons do not have policies in line with the department.
The revised policy includes guided support for wardens, greater communication with the Department of Justice, and identification of high-risk detainees awaiting trial or conviction.
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Compiled by Matthew Petersen
