Durban prisoners dig hole, escape

This was discovered by police officers yesterday as they were conducting a routine check early in the day, Highway Mail reported.

Vusi Gumede was arrested for murder, Siya Dlamini for possession of stolen property, while Bheki Nkosi was detained for possession of a firearm. A case of escape from lawful custody has been opened at Bellair Police Station for investigation.

Colonel Jay Naicker warned the public that the men were dangerous and pleaded with the community to not try apprehend them but contact the police as soon as possible.

Bellair police can be contacted on 031-451-2826 and Crime Stop on 08600-10111.

Earlier this month, five prisoners awaiting trial escaped from the Hartbeespoort Dam police holding cells near Brits, in the North West.

Circumstances surrounding their escape was not clear as there were no signs of a forceful exit.

“We are currently investigating this matter internally, and if there is any one who is found to be wrong, the person will be dealt with accordingly,” said the acting provincial commissioner of the North West Major-General Jacob Tsumane.

Just a week later, July 12, also in the North West, an inmate from the Lofterfontein Correctional Facility near Brits was shot and killed during an escape attempt.

Joseph Floyd Mabena, 41, made a daring escape from prison after holding up two wardens with a knife and gun, which was later revealed to be a handmade toy gun.

Mabena allegedly hijacked a police vehicle on the premises but was caught at Garankuwa off-ramp, where police tried to pull him over, but he pointed a gun at them, resulting in the offices opening fire on him, police spokesperson Paul Ramaloko said.

– Caxton News Service