Hunt for prisoner escapees on the N3
It has been reported that authorities have warned surrounding residents and motorists there to be extra cautious
A hunt for eight escaped prisoners is currently underway on the N3. A group of 16 prisoners, who are illegal immigrants in custody, were being transported earlier today, Thursday, January 12 from Ladysmith towards Mooi River, when eight of them decided to break free.
The prisoners who are awaiting trial for various crimes, were being transported by police officers in a police prisoner transport vehicle.
It is alleged that they managed to break the lock and force the door of the vehicle open as the vehicle slowed down just before approaching the Mooi River Toll Plaza. Four of the eight are back in police custody the other four are still on foot.
It’s further been alleged that the escapees fled into a nearby informal settlement. Police are being led by sniffer dogs through the bushes off the N3 in the vicinity of Mooi River. It has been reported that authorities have warned surrounding residents and motorists there to be extra cautious.
The police have been contacted for more information and the above story will be updated as soon as more information is available.
