Tzaneen – One of the seven awaiting trial prisoners who escaped from the Tzaneen Police Station cells on Monday morning has been rearrested, North West police said on Tuesday.
Goodwill Marana Sekhwela, 26, awaiting trial in a burglary and theft case, was rearrested after officers were tipped off about his whereabouts by a member of the community, police spokesman Moatshe Ngoepe said.
Ngoepe said Sekhwela would appear before the Tzaneen Magistrate’s court soon on a charge of escaping from lawful custody.
Sekhwela was arrested hours after he and six others allegedly overpowered police officers during a routine check.
The search for the remaining six escapees continues.
They have been identified as Victor Makgopa, Mahlatsi Sekgota, Tshepo Charles Sebake, Piet Solly Sekgobela, Huston Mabasa and Lucky Mashatola – aged between 22 and 36.
They were awaiting trial after being arrested for various violent crimes, including armed robbery, housebreaking and rape. Police consider them to be extremely dangerous and have asked members of the public not to approach them but rather to contact the nearest police station or Brigadier Thomas Shingange on 082 565 8155.
Ngoepe said the circumstances surrounding the escape was under investigation.
African News Agency
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