Four Police Officers Accused of Assisting Alleged Illegal Mining Kingpin’s Escape in North West

Four police officers in North West have been implicated in helping notorious illegal mining kingpin James Neo Tshoaeli, also known as “Tiger,” escape from police custody. The officers, identified as WO Jack Motlhabya, 37, WO Menzi Shabalala, 38, Sgt Ntutuko Dladla, 40, and Sgt Samkelo Mbotho, 38, were reportedly the last people to be seen with Tshoaeli before his daring escape.

According to sources within the police, the officers were involved in Tshoaeli’s escape, which took place after he resurfaced from Shaft 11 in Stilfontein on January 15, but never made it to the holding cells as planned. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe confirmed last week that the four officers were arrested by the SAPS Anti-Corruption Unit in connection with the escape.

“They are the ones that received him and were supposed to ensure he made it to the police station, but he didn’t,” said one source. Three of the officers are reportedly from KwaZulu-Natal, while the fourth is from Pretoria, Gauteng.

Suspicion has also arisen that community members may have been involved in Tshoaeli’s escape, with some potentially providing information to the officers about his identity and whereabouts. “We suspect the community members who were part of the rescue operation may have informed the officers,” a police source revealed.

Tshoaeli, a well-known figure in illegal mining circles, has been described by miners as “ruthless” and “cruel.” Sources indicate that he maintained control over fellow miners through violence and fear, using brutal tactics to enforce his authority. He allegedly controlled access to food and medicine for miners working underground, employing physical abuse, including assaults with a sjambok, to manipulate and exploit them.

The case has raised serious concerns about police corruption and the role of community members in enabling criminal activities. As the investigation continues, authorities are keen to uncover the full extent of the escape plan and any potential broader criminal networks involved.

SAPS Pushes for Solutions as Load Reduction Hampers Crime Prevention Efforts

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com