Limpopo police have launched an intensive manhunt following the escape of a 34-year-old man from lawful custody at Maphuta Malatji Hospital on Sunday.

Letaba Herald reports that according to a police statement, Tumelo Raledi escaped at approximately 21:30 while admitted to the hospital’s male medical ward. At the time of the incident, Raledi was under police guard.

Handcuff removal raises questions

Speaking to the Herald, a hospital employee who requested anonymity expressed shock at the incident.

The employee claimed the suspect managed to remove his handcuffs while the police officer on duty briefly left the ward.

According to the employee, the prisoner came from Matatshe Correctional Centre in the Vhembe area on Friday, to appear in the Phalaborwa Magistrate’s Court. He then claimed not to be feeling well and was later admitted to the hospital before escaping on Sunday night.

“The suspect uncuffed himself when the police officer stepped out of the ward. When the officer returned, the suspect was nowhere to be found. We later found the handcuffs, with no keys or any sharp object that could explain how they were removed,” the employee said.

Search operation underway

The health worker added that approximately five police vehicles were immediately dispatched to search the hospital premises, but the suspect could not be located.

This, they said, raised concerns that the escape may have involved inside assistance or external interference.

Meanwhile, provincial police commissioner Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has condemned the escape and assured the public that all available resources are being deployed to ensure the suspect’s swift re-arrest.

Anyone with information that may assist police in re-arresting Raledi is urged to contact the investigating officer, Warrant Officer Moloko Monyepao, at 082 469 1240, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, the nearest police station, or report via the MySAPS app.

At this stage, no further updates on the manhunt had been received. Police investigations are ongoing.