PICS | Three ‘highly dangerous’ prisoners on the run after escaping while en route to prison

Cape Town – Police have launched a manhunt after three “highly dangerous” prisoners awaiting trial escaped while en route to prison in Emalahleni on Wednesday morning.

The three suspects between the ages of 20 and 40 escaped at 11:00 after appearing at the Groblersdal Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday, police said in a statement.

According to police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, the three appeared on charges of murder, rape, robbery, unlawful possession of firearms and ammunition, as well as cash-in-transit heist-related charges.

Mojapelo said that Michael Masimula, Mahlatse Matebane and Lovemore Moshui were being transported between Groblersdal and Emalahleni with three other prisoners when they escaped next to Moutse Mall in Dennilton.

#sapsLIM Dennilton #SAPS launched a manhunt of 3 dangerous inmates, Michael Masimula, Mahlatse Matebane & Lovemore Moshui who escaped whilst being transported from Groblersdal to Witbank Prison this morning. Any1 with info1, call 079 894 5501. #Escapees TMhttps://t.co/PyRSCAJYdS pic.twitter.com/iwyG213EP8

— SA Police Service ?? (@SAPoliceService) January 25, 2023

“The circumstances surrounding their escape are still being investigated,” he said.

A case of escaping from lawful custody has since been opened and investigations are continuing.

“The suspects are considered dangerous and people are cautioned not to approach them but must instead call the police.” said Mojapelo.