RENEWED calls to increase public safety at eSikhawini Magistrate’s Court were raised by concerned residents when the court opened last week.
This follows the escape of two awaiting trial prisoners last year, leading to residents doubting their safety at the court building.
Suspect Ayanda Khoza (22) escaped from the court after an official allegedly neglected to lock the cell door during a distraction when three teenagers mugged a frail woman outside the court premises.
The young man apparently walked out the front gate like an innocent civilian, without anyone noticing.
While officials were still investigating this escape, three weeks later Bongani Dube (30) of Port Durnford knocked a court orderly to the ground and ran off with his police firearm.
Witnesses said after appearing in the regional court, Dube was being escorted back to the cell when he tripped and attacked an official, leaving him defenceless on the ground.
These events raised concerns and fear within the already frightened community, who believe the fugitives are a danger to society.
‘I have to attend my son’s court case this year and I am not sure whether to stay there the whole time. If a criminal can trip and attack a police officer and walk away with a gun, can you imagine what he can do to the rest of us?’ questioned resident Mthoko Mkhwanazi.
Empangeni police spokesperson Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose told the Zululand Observer the eSikhaleni SAPS has placed more police officials at court to deal with the increased crime activities there.
‘There are more police now and the station commander is in discussions with the Department of Justice. Once they reach a decision, then we will come up with a safety resolution, whether it’s to increase security or install burglar guards. The matter is being dealt with and we will make sure we minimise any escapes this year,’ said Mdlalose.
19 NOVEMBER 2013
Court security in question
COMMUNITY members are concerned about safety measures at eSikhawini Magistrate’s Court.
This follows the recent escape of two awaiting trial prisoners from the court’s holding cells within a month.
Suspect Ayanda Khoza (22) escaped from the court after an official allegedly neglected to lock the cell door during a distraction when three teenagers mugged a frail woman outside the court premises.
The young man apparently walked out the front gate like a normal civilian, without anyone noticing.
While officials were still investigating this escape, three weeks later Bongani Dube (30) of Port Durnford knocked a court orderly to the ground and ran off with his police firearm.
Witnesses said that after appearing in the regional court, Dube was being escorted back to the cell when he tripped and attacked an official, leaving him defenceless on the ground.
These events raised concerns and fear within the already frightened community, who believe the fugitives are a danger to society.
Once the news about the escapees hit the streets, Zululand Observer’s facebook and website was flooded with comments on the incident.
‘How could this have happened twice? Who’s to say this is not a planned thing between the prisoner and the serviceman? Without men of law you never know. It can’t be coincidence that it happened twice at the same court,’ said Cheryl.
‘Planned escape, it wouldn’t surprise me if it’s an inside job,’ Sihle Shandu commented on the website.
Futhi Msweli of eSikhaleni said, ‘I am scared that they might do something to innocent people. I am sure that gun will be used to (commit) another crime. More safety measures need to be taken, because even the court’s staff are no longer safe.’
Empangeni SAPS spokesperson Captain Mbongiseni Mdlalose said the investigation is still ongoing and the police are working to apprehend the fugitives.
‘The nature of their escape is being investigated and we also urge the community to come forward with any information regarding the escape. We also plead with residents not to try and apprehend them as they are both dangerous.’
Mdlalose said the community can contact eSikhawini SAPS on 035 796807 or the toll-free Crime Stop number 0800 1011 or 10111.
14 NOVEMBER 2013
Armed prisoner on the run
CHAOS once again ruled at eSikhawini Magistrate’s Court as proceedings were again interrupted by the escape of an awaiting trial prisoner from the court’s holding cells on Tuesday morning.
Officials were faced with a dilemma after Bongani Dube (30), charged with two counts of armed business robbery in February, allegedly attacked and tripped a court orderly, grabbed his firearm and fled on foot at around 11:30am.
According to witnesses, the accused from Port Durnford was being escorted back to the cells after appearing in the regional court when he allegedly forcefully knocked down the serviceman, leaving him defenceless on the ground.
Empangeni SAPS spokesperson Captain Mbongiseni Mdlalose confirmed the incident and warned the public not try and apprehend him.
‘The accused took a 9mm pistol with him and he is therefore armed and dangerous, so anybody encountering him should simply inform their nearest police station.’
Mdlalose said the community can contact the eSikhawini police on 035 7968027 or dial the toll-free Crime Stop number 080010111 or 10111.
Three weeks ago a 22-year-old prisoner Ayanda Khoza from uMkhobose Reserve also escaped from the court.
He made his getaway during the confusion when three opportunistic teenagers mugged a frail women from the clinic outside the court premises.
How could this have happened twice already.whose to say this is not a planned thing between the prisoner and the serviceman.with out men of law you never know.it can’t be coincidence that it happen twice at the same court.