BARBERTON – An offender serving a 22-year sentence for a rhino-related poaching case, escaped at Barberton Maximum Correctional Centre in the early hours of Wednesday.
According to Mesia Hlungwani, Department of Correctional Services spokesman, Raphael Nyamazane (44) had been admitted at Barberton TB Specialised Hospital at the time of his escape at around 03:00.
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He said Nyamazane has been charged with contravening rhino act and trespassing at Kruger National Park.
“He was convicted and sentenced on July 28, 2016 after he was found guilty for trespassing Kruger National Park, possession of unlawful fire-arm, possession of unlawful ammunitions with intent to commit crime,” said Hlungwani.
Hlungwani said Nyamazane had been sentenced to 22-years imprisonment.
“The offender (Nyamazane) was admitted at Barberton Maximum Centre on August 14, 2016. He later got sick and was referred to Barberton TB Specialised Hospital where he escaped,” added Hlungwani.
He said investigation was underway to determine as to how Nyamazane escaped as he was under officers guards at the hospital.
He appealed to the community members not to try to personally apprehend Nyamazane when they spot him but rather to contact their nearest police station as he pose danger to the society.
His manhunt has been launched.
