BOSCHFONTEIN – According to Capt Magonseni Nkosi of Tonga SAPS, the 34-year-old Nhlanhla Sibusiso Mahlalela attacked a police officer and managed to escape the court’s holding cells last Tuesday.
He was arrested early last year and had made numerous court appearances and was remanded in custody. He had been charged with, among others, murder, housebreaking, rape and possession of an unlawful firearm.
Mahlalela was wearing black trousers and a grey jersey at the time of his escape, but he was later spotted limping and wearing grey tracksuit pants and a blue shirt.
Community members are warned not to attempt to apprehend him as he is considered dangerous, but to contact Capt Musisiwe Kunene on 082-448-9521.
Nkosi stated that police believe he will turn to crime now that he is free again.
He also said at a recent crime meeting, police were concerned with the many rape cases being reported in the Naas area.
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The offences usually occur in secluded areas in or behind Naas Stadium.
He explained that most victims were women walking home alone late at night or early morning hours after social events. He urged women never to go to a social event in the hopes of getting a lift back home and to rather plan to have friends accompany them home.
Nkosi also cautioned against carrying cash as this makes people a bigger target.
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Liquor store owners and employees should also refrain from selling liquor to underage people, as this is illegal. Nkosi warned community members not to send their children to go buy liquor.
