Five prisoners escaped from the Dundee prison at around 10pm on Saturday night by breaking through the ceiling and scaling the fence on Gray Street.
One of those to make a dash for freedom was Cassim Alijan who was being held for the murder of Rekha Govender in her Browning Street house on July 2.
Major Thulani Zwane, SAPS spokesperson, confirmed the escape saying a manhunt has been launched for the men.
A check on the premises on Sunday morning revealed a piece of clothing hanging over a flattened razor wire fence, about five metres high, on the Gray Street side of the complex.
This indicates the spot where the offenders made their break, sources said.
In a statement correctional services said: “The detainees escaped by cutting a hole in the ceiling and roof of cell number 12.
“They then jumped over an approximately five metre high razor wire fence, making their way to Gray Street.”
The suspects were named as Cassim Alijan, Lethukuthula Shabalala, Mondli Brian Gamede, Bonginkosi Cyril Sithebe and Bongani Kubheka.
They face various charges including rape, robbery and murder.
“All five detainees are very dangerous to the public because of their alleged crimes.”
Police have asked people not to approach the suspects as they are highly dangerous.
They should report their whereabouts to the police on 08600 10111.