Eastern Cape police have rearrested one of the eight detainees who escaped from the Afsondering police station cells on April 4.
In a media statement issued Monday, police spokesperson Brigadier Nobantu Gantana said a multidisciplinary task team successfully rearrested one of the escapees.
The eight detainees were originally in custody for serious offences, including murder, rape, crimen injuria and assault.
“One of the escapees, Siphelele Mkhulisi, an adult male, was rearrested at approximately 8 a.m. on April 6,” Gantana said.
She said Mkhulisi had been in custody on a murder charge.
Gantana said acting on intelligence that he was asleep at his aunt’s residence in Masakala location, Matatiele, the task team – comprising visible policing, K9 and detectives – approached the premises.
“The suspect was found still asleep and was arrested without incident,” she said.
The investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape, including a separate case of aiding and abetting, is ongoing.
“The team is actively following up on information that will lead to the arrest of the remaining seven escapees, who face charges including murder, rape, assault and crimen injuria,” Gantana said.
Members of the public have been cautioned not to attempt to apprehend the escapees, as they are considered dangerous.
Gantana said anyone with information about their whereabouts is urged to contact the investigating team:
– Sergeant Matabane : 076 342 4033
– Constable Mantelefu : 073 109 7962
“Alternatively, information can be shared via Crime Stop on 08600 10111. All information will be treated confidentially.”
IOL News previously reported that police are continuing to investigate how the eight detainees escaped from the Afsondering police station cells in Maluti.
Authorities are pursuing additional charges related to escaping from lawful custody.
The escapees have been identified as Asiphe Yawu, Abraham Gobozi, Kwanele Mzala, Siphelele Mkhulisi, Thabo Nana, Siphelele Nondolo, Anele Ludidi and Sinethemba Mazendala.
A separate investigation into aiding and abetting has also been opened to determine whether others assisted in the escape.
IOL News
