Ndudi Anyim
Police in Mpumalanga Province have launched a manhunt for three suspects who escaped from lawful custody at Volksrust Magistrate’s Court after being brought in for their court appearance on Monday, April 19.
Reports indicate that there were four suspects initially but one was later rearrested hence the manhunt for the three.
Security Watch Africa learnt that the Police were transporting the four suspects, arrested on allegations of a business robbery, from the Police van to court, when a scuffle broke out and the four suspects escaped.
According to Colonel Donald Mdhluli, who spoke for the South African Police Service, Office of the Provincial Commissioner Mpumalanga, whilst searching for the suspects, Police received information that one of the suspects, Welcome Mncube, 56, was spotted at a bush near the courthouse.
“Police then followed the lead, spotted him and swiftly rearrested him as he attempted to flee. While being arrested the suspect tried to grab the Police officer’s service pistol and it went off and it hit him. He was then taken to hospital after sustaining a gunshot wound and he is currently under Police guard.
“The other two members that sustained some injuries during the scuffle at the courthouse are also recovering in hospital. It is said that the suspects were arrested for a business robbery incident which occurred on Saturday, April 10, at Volksrust. After the said robbery, Police then followed information and arrested the four suspects and found them in possession of a firearm as well as ammunition suspected to have been used in the robbery.
“The suspects reportedly had their first court appearance on Monday, April 12, and when they escaped from lawful custody they were about to have their second court appearance. The suspects are also facing a charge of possession of suspected stolen vehicle, a Ford Ranger, which forms part of the probe as it is said that the vehicle was used during the said business robbery and preliminary investigation revealed that the vehicle was reported stolen in Gauteng.”
He added that other three suspects, 34-year-old Jima Dube, Sandile Gasa, aged 42 as well as 28-year-old Emmanuel Sibanda are still at large.
He said members of the public are urged not to approach the wanted suspects as they are considered to be dangerous, but rather notify Police about their whereabouts.
“Police cannot rule out possibilities of adding more charges with regard to the injured members. Members of the community can contact Volksrust Police at 0177359913 or Crime Stop number on 08600 10111.
“Alternatively, members of the public can send information via MYSAPS App. All information received will be treated as confidential and callers may opt to remain anonymous,” he assured.
