LYDENBURG – A major manhunt is underway in Mpumalanga following the escape of six suspects from Lydenburg Police Station in the early hours of Saturday morning 29 November, sparking concerns about security at the facility.
The breakout was discovered during a routine inspection at approximately 02:30 when officers investigating a water leak outside one of the holding cells uncovered a hole that had been carved through the cell wall. The structural damage revealed how the six men had managed to flee custody.
Suspects at large
Police have issued an urgent appeal for public assistance in locating the following individuals who remain at large:
- Fana Fenyane
- Isaac Malope
- Sergio Mandoza (Mozambican national)
- Francisco Vasco Maganja (Mozambican national)
- France Malatjie
- Clayton Flank
The escapees were being held on serious charges including murder, rape, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and malicious damage to property.
Public appeal
Authorities are urging members of the public with any information regarding the whereabouts of these suspects to come forward immediately. Information can be reported via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS mobile application. All information received will be treated confidentially, and callers may remain anonymous.
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Acting provincial commissioner Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi has vowed that the suspects will be tracked down and returned to custody. “These individuals will be hunted down and brought back to where they belong,” he stated.
The commissioner has also announced that a full investigation will be conducted to determine how the escape occurred and what security failures may have contributed to the incident.
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