A manhunt is underway in Limpopo after three prisoners escaped from a police holding cell in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the prisoners escaped through a hole inside the cells at Tshamutumbu outside Thohoyandou.

Awaiting trial prisoners Rulph Chemai (19) from Zimbabwe and Nemalale Tshilidzi (34) from the Vhembe District face charges of house robbery while the third prisoner, Caiphus Kwinda (45), was on Tuesday sentenced to life imprisonment for rape.

“Additional charges of escaping from lawful custody have been opened and the circumstances around their escape is still being investigated. Police are appealing for the public’s assistance in locating the escapees,” Mojapelo said.

He warned residents not to confront the prisoners as they are considered to be dangerous, and urged them to rather contact the nearest police station. Alternatively, contact investigating officer Detective Warrant Officer Colbert Ntshavheni on 082 4141621, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111 or use the MySAPSApp.