Crime
Escapee found asleep at aunt’s house as Eastern Cape manhunt continues
There’s something almost surreal about the way one of the country’s ‘wanted’ suspects was found. Not on the run. Not hiding in the bush. But asleep.
In a recent development, one of eight detainees who broke out of police holding cells in the Eastern Cape has been rearrested under surprisingly quiet circumstances. The man, accused of murder, was found sleeping at a relative’s home, bringing a brief moment of progress in what remains an ongoing manhunt.
Found fast asleep, arrested without a struggle
Police confirmed that Siphelele Mkhulisi was tracked down early on the morning of 6 April in the Masakala area near Matatiele. Acting on intelligence, officers entered the home of his aunt and found him still asleep.
According to authorities, the arrest was carried out without incident. No confrontation, no resistance. Just a suspect taken back into custody as quietly as he had been discovered.
The bigger picture: seven still on the run
While Mkhulisi is now back in custody, the broader situation remains serious. Seven other detainees who escaped alongside him are still being pursued.
Police say the group was originally being held for a range of serious offences, including murder, rape, assault, and crimen injuria. That alone has heightened concern, especially in affected communities.
Authorities have urged residents not to take matters into their own hands. The fugitives are considered dangerous, and any sightings should be reported rather than confronted.
How did the escape happen?
That question is still hanging in the air.
Investigators are now working to establish exactly how eight detainees managed to escape from the Afsondering police holding cells in Maluti. Alongside this, a separate case has been opened to determine whether anyone on the outside may have helped them.
In South Africa, incidents involving holding cell escapes often trigger deeper scrutiny around security measures and procedures. This case is no different, with investigators working to determine what went wrong.
A community on edge
Back in Matatiele and the surrounding areas, the situation remains under close watch. Residents have been encouraged to stay alert and report any information that could assist police.
Tip-offs can be shared directly with investigators or through Crime Stop, with authorities assuring the public that all information will be handled confidentially.
For now, the focus remains on locating the remaining seven escapees. The early rearrest may signal progress, but the search is far from over.
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Source: IOL
Featured Image: Shutterstock
