Nkandla fugitive rearrested in Durban after asthma ruse

Manhunt ends as escaped Bizimali High School rape suspect is captured at Umbilo men's hostel

May 22, 2025

Muzi Zincume 1 minute read

Suspects arrested for the murder of seven family members PHOTO: stock image/Kyle Cowan

A rape suspect who outsmarted police and escaped from the Mariannhill police station earlier this week has been rearrested.

The suspect (28) was found on Thursday morning at the Dalton Men’s Hostel in Umbilo, following an intensive manhunt launched after his escape.

ALSO READ: Rape suspect outsmarts police

According to KZN police spokesperson, Colonel Robert Netshiunda, the man had complained of an asthma attack while in custody on Monday night. He reportedly fainted, and as officers attempted to assist him, he took advantage of the confusion and fled into the darkness.

“Police immediately launched a manhunt,” said Colonel Netshiunda. “Their relentless search led them to a hostel in Umbilo, where the suspect was successfully rearrested.”

The fugitive is expected to appear in the Pinetown Magistrate’s Court today (Thursday), where he will face a charge of escaping from lawful custody.

After his court appearance, he will be transferred to Ekhombe to face multiple rape charges. He is accused of targeting school learners residing in cottages at a school in Nkandla.

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