POLICE have launched a manhunt for a dangerous trial-awaiting prisoner who shot and killed a police officer before escaping from a Tembisa Magistrate’s Court cell shortly before 9am this morning.
Joshua Bomba Shongwane was due to appear for criminal proceedings relating to a series of hijackings.
Col Lungelo Dlamini, spokesman for Gauteng Provincial SAPS, appeals to members of the public who may see him to contact the police immediately, as he is considered to be armed and dangerous.
Video courtesy Jantji Ngweyama, The Tembisan
“Shongwane was at the court cells when he held up three police officers and pointed a firearm at them. He took the cell keys and locked them in an office inside the court cells. He allegedly went downstairs where he shot a captain and escaped. The officer was shot in the lower body and died at the scene,” explained Dlamini.
An investigation is in progress to determine how the awaiting prisoner got hold of a firearm while he was in the cells.
Shongwane was awaiting trial for nine hijacking cases committed in Tembisa, Rabie Ridge and Kagiso in 2012. He also escaped from the court cells in 2015 but was re-arrested.
He is considered to be highly dangerous. Anyone who may see him must contact Crime Stop at 086-001-0111 or contact their nearest police station. A reward for information will be issued.
“The province has been robbed of a selfless and dedicated member of the South African Police Service. I am totally disturbed by the brazen attack and disregard of our police officers by these callous criminals. I appeal to the criminal justice system to apprehend the suspect and ensure he receives the harshest sentence.
“On behalf of Gauteng Provincial Government, I would like to send our heartfelt condolences to the captain’s family, friends and fellow SAPS members”, said MEC for Community Safety, Sizakele Nkosi-Malobane.
