Manhunt underway after 12 suspects break out of Eastern Cape police cells

Police are on the hunt for 12 suspects who escaped from a Mount Frere police station during the early hours of Thursday morning.

Acting Eastern Cape police commissioner Major-General Zithulele Moses Dladla has since instructed police to implement a 72-hour activation to track down the suspects.

South African Police Members (Saps) members discovered a hole in a cell wall while conducting their routine hourly cell visits.

Further investigations revealed the perimeter fence near the cell block was also cut.

Police have warned communities that these prisoners are dangerous and should not be approached. Instead, they should contact the police.

Here’s a list of the escapees and their alleged crimes

1. Luthando Mangaliso – Rape
2. Sikhona Manyambela Ntabankulu – Robbery Aggravated
3. Funisile Nodada Ntabankulu – Robbery Aggravated
4. Ntokozo Diko Ntabankulu – Robbery Aggravated
5. Mandla Mcukana – Robbery Aggravated
6. Bandile Banzi Blaai – Robbery  Aggravated
7. Aphelele Aros – Robbery
8. Nkosikhona Ngcopheni – Theft
9. Ayanda Madzikane – Robbery Aggravated
10. Luphumzo Sodladls –  Burglary Ress
11. Mbonowenkosi Boto  – Robbery Aggravated
12. Spelele Ngqetho – Robbery Aggravated

WATCH: Manhunt launched after Malmesbury ‘prison break.’

Police said they would provide photos of the escapees when they became available.

Anyone with information can contact the Mount Frere Station Commander, Colonel Fundiswa Mhlamanzana, on 0824992480 or 039-255-0550 or Crime Stop on 08600-10111 or the nearest police station.

All information is confidential and callers may remain anonymous.

The provincial organised crime unit is investigating the case.

Dladla said there would also be an internal probe.

Police have warned communities not to harbour or protect these criminals as they would be committing an offence if found to be aiding and abetting them.

“We appeal to the communities to keep an alert eye out for these dangerous criminals and to work closely with us to ensure their speedy arrests,” said Dladla.

Compiled by Narissa Subramoney

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