A 28-year-old suspect was rearrested after reportedly escaping from lawful custody at Kwamhlanga yesterday morning, Saturday 03 February 2024 at about 10:15 am.
The suspect was initially arrested for allegedly committing housebreaking in the area.
Currently, the incident surrounding his escape, is still subject to an internal and criminal investigation however it is worth noting that the suspect somehow got away during the time when members of the Police were busy with administrative duties. Further reports indicate that one of the SAPS members was allegedly attacked by this suspect who forcefully shoved him in the process of escaping. The probe is still ongoing and full details on how the escape unfolded, will be revealed in due course.
It is also important to note that soon after the suspect took off, he was apprehended shortly after escaping when he reportedly jumped a wall, trying to run away from the might of the law.
During his rearrest, the suspect was observed to have sustained some injuries hence he was taken to hospital for medical treatment under police guard.
The suspect will appear in court soon on charges of housebreaking as well as for escaping from lawful custody. Police cannot rule out the possibility of adding a charge of assaulting a police official.
The Provincial Commissioner of the SAPS in Mpumalanga, Lieutenant General Semakaleng Daphney Manamela, has commended the quick response by the police in ensuring that the suspect does not get away but face the court for his alleged crime.
