Police launch manhunt after three prisoners escape

04 November 2022 - 08:17
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Nemalale Tshilidzi, 34, is one of the prisoners who escaped from a holding cell.
Nemalale Tshilidzi, 34, is one of the prisoners who escaped from a holding cell.
Image: supplied

Limpopo police in Tshamutumbu outside Thohoyandou 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 Lt-Col 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.

Rulph Chemai, 19, is an awaiting trial prisoner who escaped from a holding cell.
Rulph Chemai, 19, is an awaiting trial prisoner who escaped from a holding cell.
Image: supplied
Caiphus Kwinda, 45, was sentenced to life imprisonment.
Caiphus Kwinda, 45, was sentenced to life imprisonment.
Image: Supplied

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 or urgently contact the investigating officer Det-W/O Colbert Ntshavheni on 082 4141621, Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPSApp,” said Seabi.

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