LIMPOPO police in Tshamutumbu outside Thohoyandou, South Africa, have launched a manhunt after three prisoners escaped from a police holding cell in the early hours on Wednesday.
The prisoners, aged between 19 and 45, allegedly escaped through a hole inside the cells at around 2am.
Police spokesperson Mamphaswa Seabi said they are appealing for assistance from the public to locate the three escapees. “Awaiting trial prisoners Rulph Chemai, 19, from Zimbabwe and Nemalale Tshilidzi, 34, from Vhembe district face charges of house robbery.
“The third prisoner, Caiphus Kwinda, 45, was sentenced to life imprisonment after he was convicted of rape,” he said. Seabi said additional charges of escaping from lawful custody have been opened. The circumstances around their escape are being investigated.
“Members of the community are warned not to confront the prisoners as they are considered to be dangerous. Rather contact the nearest police station,” said Seabi. — TimesLIVE