Gauteng police are searching for three dangerous suspects who escaped from a Soweto court.
|||Johannesburg - Gauteng police are searching for three dangerous suspects who escaped from a Soweto court.
Police spokesman Lieutenant-Colonel Lungelo Dlamini said a manhunt had been launched for the trio, who escaped from the Protea Magistrate’s Court on Monday. They are Sabelo Mthimkhulu, Nicholas Shelembe and Akani Khoza.
“The suspects were due to appear in court for serious crimes including armed robbery, housebreaking, rape and possession of unlicensed firearms. They are considered dangerous.”
Dlamini said Mthimkhulu, also known as “Tear Drop Smash”, is light in complexion and has some scratches on his face. “He and Khoza were appearing for several cases of armed robbery and housebreaking.”
Shelembe was due to appear on rape charges.
“Further charges of escaping from custody are being investigated against them.”
Dlamini said an investigation was under way to determine how the group managed to escape. “It is unknown how the suspects managed to escape after the prisoners’ truck arrived at court. An investigation is under way.”
He said a criminal case and an internal investigation would be opened if it was found that the suspects' escape was due to any negligence on the part of officials.
Police are appealing to the public to come forward with any information that could lead to the rearrest of the men. Those with information can contact their nearest police station, or call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or investigating officer Captain Henry Ndinisa on 082 778 7913.
Last August, three men who were arrested for robbery, housebreaking and the possession of dagga escaped from the Primrose police station.
And in July, a convict at Losperfontein prison in North West escaped but was later gunned down by officials after he stole a car to flee. The man, who was serving a life sentence for a range of offences, including murder, robbery, and the possession of an unlicensed firearm and ammunition, used a toy gun to threaten officials and escaped.
Last June, seven awaiting-trial prisoners escaped from the Lenasia Magistrate’s Court, while seven inmates escaped from Groenpunt Prison in May.
Most of the suspects and convicts have been rearrested.
karishma.dipa@inl.co.za
The Star