Police in Kuruman have launched a manhunt following the escape of two prisoners on Monday 4 May at approximately 16:20.

According to reports, police members were transporting prisoners to the correctional facility when two prisoners escaped.

The escaped prisoners have been identified as:

• Oratile Theophilas Ntwagae (28), a South African national who is facing charges of murder and kidnapping; and
• Kabelo Edward Masilo (22), a Lesotho national who is facing charges of murder as well as contravention of Sections 43, 32 and 34 of the Immigration Act, 2002 (Act No. 13 of 2002).

A 72-hour activation plan has been implemented and a multi-disciplinary team comprising members of the police in Mothibistad, Kuruman Public Order Policing, Community Policing Forum (CPF) and private security has been deployed to assist in the search and re-arrest of the escapees.

Police are urging members of the public not to approach the escapees, as they may be dangerous. Anyone with information that could assist in locating the escapees is requested to contact their nearest police station immediately or call the SAPS Crime Stop number at 08600 10111.

Alternatively, Captain Makoloi can be called on 082 373 9947 or Captain Lechwiti on 082 374 0392.

The matter will be investigated internally to determine whether any negligence resulted in the escape of the prisoners. Investigations continue, says Colonel Cherelle Ehlers, police spokesperson.