A convicted rapist and kidnapper escaped after seeking medical attention at a Mamelodi hospital in Tshwane.

Department of Correctional Services (DCS) spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo says Clatta Gumbo escaped from the grounds of Mamelodi Regional Hospital on Monday.

Nxumalo says the DCS is working with other law enforcement agencies and conducting a widespread search operation to locate and apprehend Gumbo.

Gumbo was imprisoned at Baviaanspoort Correctional Centre in Tshwane on August 28, 2018, to serve a life sentence for rape, kidnapping and assault.

“He was [being] escorted to hospital for a consultation with a dietician when he attacked the guarding official, disarmed him and escaped.”

Nxumalo says immediate action was taken to initiate a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape and appealed to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the escapee to contact their nearest correctional facility or police station.

“Crucially, we encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities.

“Public safety is our utmost priority and every effort is being made to rearrest Gumbo.”