“These inmates were trusted by many, and this led to their successful escape,” a reliable source said on Monday.
Two prisoners escaped from Witbank Correctional Centre (Paxton) on Thursday, July 28. They are still on free foot.
According to a media release, a preliminary investigation is being conducted of this breakout.
The two prisoners, Mduduzi Johnson Khubheka and Vusimuzi Geraald Skosana were long term serving offenders and the breakout occurred when they escaped through the perimeter fence main gate after physically wrestling with a female official, to gain access out of the centre. The prisoners also escaped with an official’s car.
This car, however, was found abandoned at the back gate of the centre near an agriculural field, after the car went into a ditch.
The key was still in the ignition and a cell phone was also left behind by the prisoners. The appointed investigation team is continuing with the investigation and a preliminary report will include actions already taken to prevent the re-occurrence of similar incidents.
Steps will also be taken against the correctional officials, where applicable, if they are found to be involved.
The public is urged to report any suspicious information immediately. Khubheka is serving sentence for attempted murder and aggravating robbery and Skosana is serving a sentence for theft.
The public is also urged not to take the law into their own hands regarding this matter.
The commissioner for Witbank Correctional Services, Mr Mandla Sibanyoni also added that a full report is expected next week Tuesday.
“If we say anything now, it may interfere with the investigation. As soon as we receive the report, we will keep you updated,” he said.
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