Johannes Shelboy Motlaoung (23) from eMzinoni was re-arrested on December 8 after escaping from the Bethal Prison Hospital the previous day. He now faces additional charges of escaping from lawful custody, along with a murder charge.

Motlaoung’s yellow prison overall was discovered when a hunt for him was launched. He had been admitted under hospital guard for medical attention.

Although Ridge Times initially reported that Motlaoung was a convicted murderer, Tshidi Mapole, the regional co-ordinator of communication for the Department of Correctional Services, has confirmed that he was remanded in custody while awaiting trial.

Ridge Times apologises for the error.

• This article was amended on December 13 after new information came to light.