POLOKWANE – Tshepo Stephen Botabota (28) is being sought by police after he escaped from lawful custody today (February 15).
Botabota faces charges of rape, murder and burglary which he reportedly committed between 2019 and 2021.
According to a statement by police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, he was being transported to a Polokwane prison when he escaped.
“At about 09:00 this morning, the suspect escaped from the police van he was being transported in. He was wearing a blue T-shirt and black shorts at the time of his escape,” Mojapelo explained and said an additional charge of escaping from lawful custody will be added to the Botabota’s charge sheet.
A team of detectives have been put together to search for Botabota, as well as to establish the circumstances surrounding his escape.
“Members of the community are urged not to attempt to apprehend the suspect as he is considered to be very dangerous. Anyone who might have information of the whereabouts of this notorious suspect or information that can assist in the investigation, should contact the investigating officer, Lieutenant Colonel Stimela Kanyane, on 082 729 1042. Alternatively, contact the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or your nearest police station,” Mojapelo concluded.