Residents of Ladysmith and Endumeni remain on edge this morning following the escape of seven awaiting-trial prisoners from a police van yesterday afternoon.

The detainees broke free at a traffic light on the outskirts of Ladysmith while being transported back to the Ladysmith Correctional Facility after appearing in court in Dundee earlier in the day.

Twelve men were in the van at the time, with seven managing to flee. Police units from Ladysmith, Wasbank and Glencoe, supported by K9 teams, immediately launched a large-scale manhunt. No re-arrests have yet been confirmed.

Several of the escapees are believed to be facing serious charges, including rape.

The incident has sparked widespread debate on social media, with many residents questioning why the detainees were not handcuffed. According to the Correctional Services Act 111 of 1998, prisoners must be transported in a way that upholds their dignity, and restraints should only be used when necessary for safety and security.

The escape also comes amid renewed scrutiny of prisoner transport after the recent death of a police officer and six inmates in a crash involving a police van and a truck in Limpopo.

The Courier contacted the Umzinyathi District Commissioner’s office for comment, but was referred to the KZN SAPS media centre in Durban. Updates will be provided as they become available.

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