Two More Court Escapees Apprehended, Remaining Three Continues to Elude Authorities

In another success for law enforcement, two more awaiting trial prisoners who fled from the Athlone Magistrates’ Court on Wednesday have been apprehended. The inmates had reportedly escaped from the court's holding cells shortly before they were supposed to be transported to a local correctional holding facility.

The incident transpired just before 2pm post the group’s court appearances, initiating a manhunt helmed by the Western Cape South African Police Service (SAPS)’s anti-gang unit. Notably, the prisoners are believed to have overpowered and disarmed a police official during their escape. Albeit shots were fired at the police officials, no one was hit or injured.

Despite the advances, three of the escapees remain out of police reach, keep the manhunt ongoing. The escapees, originally from Gugulethu, range in age from 20-33 years.

A stern warning from SAPS provincial spokesperson, Lieutenant Colonel Malcolm Pojie insists on the public to refrain from confronting these escapees. Labelled as armed and dangerous, they stand charged with serious offences which include murder, attempted murder, and assault, in addition to robbery and possessing stolen property.

The public is strongly advised to alert law enforcement immediately on sighting any suspicious persons or have information regarding the escapees.

The situation has led to cases of attempted murder, escape from lawful custody, and gun robbery being registered at the Athlone Police Station. The Provincal Detectives are tasked with examining these cases.