Prison escapees believed to be in Pta north

“We believe they may have escaped back into their home towns, and urge residents in those areas not to approach them."

September 12, 2017

Robinson Nqola 1 minute read

The four awaiting trial prisoners who escaped from police custody in Bela Bela on Sunday are believed to be in the north of Pretoria.

Police spokesperson, Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo, said the prisoners who had been arrested for armed robbery, broke out of prison ahead of their trial date.

He said they were due to appear in the Bela Bela magistrates court on Thursday.

Mojapelo said the residents of Soshanguve and Mabopane should watch out for these escapees: Silence Dube (29) of Soshanguve, Philani Sithole (30) of Mabopane, Thabang Dube (30) Mabopane and Joshua Mogashoa whose addresses were still unknown.

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The fifth suspect Clifford Mutonhon (29) was rearrested just outside the police station on the night of the breakout.

“We believe that they may have escaped back into their home towns, and we would like to urge residents in those areas not to approach them as they may be armed,” Mojapelo said.

The five were arrested last month.

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He said the circumstances of their escape were still being investigated

Police have since launched a manhunt.

“Anyone with information about these escapees is requested to contact the nearest police station or Crime Stop on 08600-10111.”