SASOLBURG – Three months after escaping from the Sasolburg Correctional Facility, a convicted robber remains on the run, leaving residents living in fear.
The Department of Correctional Services spokesperson, Singabakho Nxumalo, confirmed that Shima Matsie is still at large, following follow-up enquiries by Ster South. Matsie, who is serving an eight-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, vanished on April 11 while working as part of an agricultural team.
Nxumalo said that a media statement was issued immediately after Matsie escaped, and another will be released once he is rearrested.
“The department activated its internal investigation processes following the incident. Appropriate action was taken against officials found to have been negligent in the execution of their duties, in line with the applicable disciplinary and administrative prescripts,” he added.
According to Nxumalo, the department continuously reviews its security and operational measures after any breach to strengthen controls and minimise the risk of similar incidents.
These measures include reinforcing compliance with security protocols, enhancing supervision during offender work programmes, and holding negligent staff accountable.
Meanwhile, members of the local community say they are living in constant fear.
Speaking to Ster during a public opinion survey at the Sasolburg civic centre, residents shared their deep concerns.
“We can’t ignore the fact that a man deemed to be dangerous is still at large. We continue to live in fear because we don’t know when or where he will surface,” Ntswaki More (34) said.
“I doubt police are looking for the man. It’s been three months now, and we, as residents of Sasolburg, where the prison is, do not have any information on the manhunt. The last time we learnt of a search was when we saw it on the news. No signs of police actively looking for the escapee,” said Nthako Shuping (44).
