Have you seen him? Limpopo prisoner escapes police van, sparks manhunt

Residents of Thohoyandou are on high alert after a daring escape by an awaiting-trial prisoner threw local policing efforts into the spotlight.

The escape

Police confirmed that 34-year-old Muluvhu Gumani managed to break free from custody on Monday while being transported with 12 other prisoners to the Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court. According to provincial spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, Gumani forced open the door of the police van at an intersection and fled on foot.

Who is the fugitive?

Gumani had been arrested for robbery with a weapon other than a firearm. While details of the specific case have not been released, SAPS records show that suspects with similar profiles have previously been linked to violent robberies in the region.

Police appeal to the public

Authorities have urged community members not to confront Gumani, warning that he could be dangerous. Instead, residents are asked to share any information with Detective Captain Sydney Dama at 082 469 1035 or via the Crime Stop hotline 08600 10111. Reports can also be submitted through the My SAPS app.

Not the first time

This is not the first prisoner escape in Limpopo this year. In June, police rearrested another 34-year-old fugitive who had slipped out of custody weeks earlier. That arrest uncovered stolen property and an unlicensed firearm linked to an armed robbery.

These incidents have raised questions about how secure prisoner transport operations are in the province, especially given repeated breakouts.

Public reaction

Local social media groups in Limpopo were quick to circulate Gumani’s name, with many residents expressing frustration at what they see as lapses in basic policing. Some called for SAPS to strengthen security during prisoner transport, while others worried about safety in their neighborhoods until Gumani is caught.

The bigger picture

Escapes from custody have been a recurring challenge for South African police, often exposing weak points in systems meant to protect the public. In areas like Limpopo, where violent crime remains a concern, each escape fuels anxiety and erodes confidence in law enforcement.

For now, Gumani remains on the run, and the manhunt continues.

{Source: IOL}

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