A manhunt is underway for offender Nhlanhla Manda (27) who escaped from Kalafong public hospital in Pretoria (Atteridgeville) this morning, 10 February 2011. He was admitted at the hospital yesterday for an ear operation that was scheduled for today. He is serving a life sentence for murder and robbery with aggravating circumstancesafter being sentenced in July 2007. It is alleged that the offender requested to go to the bathroom when two Correctional Officials that were guarding him uncuffed his hands and leg irons. It is alleged that whilst in the bathroom the offender escaped through the window and ran away.
The National Commissioner of Correctional Services Mr. Tom Moyane has ordered an investigation to establish full details on the escape and appealed to members of the public to help in bringing this dangerous offender back to custody. The South African Police Serviceshas launched a manhunt to bring this dangerous offender back behind bars.
National Commissioner Tom Moyane had recently visited Zonderwater Management Area where he called for integrity and accountability of all managers and officials in discharging their responsibilities. He said although there was overall decline of escapes, “people of South Africa deserve more than what we have achieved thus far”. He warned officials that those involved in corrupt practices have no future in Correctional Services and they should do the “honourable thing” of leaving the department before they are caught as the Department has zero tolerance of fraud and corruption. “One escape is one too many”, said Commissioner Moyane.
The Department of Correctional Services takes any escape very seriously and has already served the two officials with letters of intent to suspend them. Commissioner Moyane said these officials may face charges of gross negligence and dereliction of responsibility.
Members of the public are advised not to attempt to arrest this dangerous escapee, but to contact 10111 or the investigating officer – Captain Malele at 0798913634.
To help the public to assist in bringing this escapee back behind bars, Correctional Services is also publishing his photograph.
Enquiries:
Manelisi Wolela
Cell: 083 626 0304
