Fourth escapee from Lydenburg cells arrested
The six accused were arrested for a variety of crimes, including rape, murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and malicious damage to property.
The Lydenburg SAPS and its detective branch are receiving praise and accolades for the swift arrest of a number of fugitives who escaped from the police station’s holding cells.
It took officers five days to apprehend four of the six felons who made a daring escape on Saturday, November 29.
Members of the police were inspecting the premises when they noticed a leaking water pipe outside one of the cells at about 02:30. Upon closer investigation, a hole in the wall of the cell was discovered. It was then that officers noticed that a washbasin had been removed from the wall and the cell wall was damaged. Six suspects had escaped from the cell.
Clayton Flank was arrested a day after the escape, followed by Fana Fenyane, Isaak Malope and France Malatjie on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday respectively, after police received tips on their whereabouts.
All four have appeared in the Lydenburg Magistrate’s Court and, in addition to their various other charges, are now also facing charges for escape from lawful custody. They are awaiting their next court appearances in custody.
Lydenburg SAPS spokesperson Sergeant Cave Dilebo said that officers from this branch and its detective division have done a sterling job in ensuring the recapture of the fugitives.
Also read: Lydenburg jail break: Police rearrest 1 suspect, 5 still at large
“Police will not rest until the remaining two suspects, Sergio Laurenca Mendoza and Franciska Vasco Madania (Mozambican nationals), have also been apprehended. We still appeal to the public to provide us with any information about Mendoza and Madania’s whereabouts.”
The six accused were arrested for a variety of crimes, including rape, murder, possession of an unlicensed firearm and malicious damage to property.
Community members with information regarding the two remaining suspects’ locations are urged to contact their nearest police station. They may also call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the My SAPS app.
