The police and other law enforcement agencies are on high alert after 12 inmates escaped from lawful custody at Komatipoort Police Station on November 5.
Two escapees, aged 27 and 34, have since been rearrested at the Lebombo Border after reportedly attempting to cross over to Mozambique. The 10 remaining suspects are still at large and are being sought by the police.
The remaining suspects are Joseph Ubisi (35), Josiah Ndlovu (30), Ruben Macuacua (30), Amos Cossa (25), Ardemeto Madevu (18), Alsido Manique (24), Sergio Tembe (36), Francisco Setoho (38), France Baloi (29) and Smanga Khoza (50).
The suspects were arrested for various offences including rape, theft, robbery and kidnapping, robbery with firearms, possession of suspected stolen properties, as well as possession of suspected stolen motor vehicles. An investigation regarding the escape is under way and the suspects will face an additional charge of escaping from lawful custody.
The inmates reportedly escaped from the police’s holding cells after battling with members of the police, resulting in one member sustaining some injuries. Two service pistols as well as some ammunition were also stolen by the suspects during the scuffle.
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The police asked that the public does not approach these remaining suspects as they are considered to be dangerous. They advised the public to rather share information that may lead to their rearrest with the police, by calling the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111. Alternatively, send information via the My SAPS app. All received information will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous.
An internal investigation regarding possible negligence and aiding has also commenced, and the provincial police commissioner, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Manamela, has vowed that the police would not hesitate to take drastic steps against any member who might be found to be at fault.
