All 68 Malmesbury escapees rearrested
Minister of Justice and Correctional Services Ronald Lamola has commended law enforcement officials for the speedy rearrest of 68 awaiting-trial prisoners.
The group escaped from the Malmesbury prison in the Western Cape on Friday.
"Minister Lamola has thanked all roles players and community members for their willingness to assist law enforcement agencies with critical information, as well as correctional services officials for swiftly restoring stability" the department’s spokesperson Crispin Phiri said on Sunday.
The escapees overpowered officials, took the keys and locked three officials in a cell and opened other cells before escaping through the main entrance and over the roof.
During the incident, nine officials sustained minor injuries and bruises.
Lamola visited the prison on Saturday where he condemned the incident.
"The regional commisioner has appointed a team to investigate the incident. I am appealing to everyone to allow us time to establish the facts, finalise the investigation and not to listen to unfounded rumours.
"We also want to thank all the officials who were on duty. It has become apparent that the circumstances under which they work are very difficult."
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12 awaiting trial prisoners escape from NW police station
Provincial police spokesperson Sabata Mokgwabone says two of the escapees were re-arrested shortly after they fled from the station. Police are continuing the search for the remaining ten. "The escapees, aged between 20 and 40 years old, escaped through a hole in the wall."