Dangerous inmate escapes from lawful custody
SERULENG – The South African Police Service (SAPS) in Lebowakgomo have launched a search operation for Patrick Mahlaela (37) who escaped from lawful custody while reportedly appearing at Thabamoopo Magistrates Court on 20 May.
Escapee Mahlaela was appearing in court on four counts of rape committed at Seruleng Village in 2015 and Byldrift in 2016, where three young ladies were gang raped in the bushes by four unknown men, one of whom was Mahlaela. Two counts of robbery with aggravating circumstances were also registered following the incident.
An additional charge of escaping from lawful custody will be added to Mahlaela. No one was injured during the escape incident.
Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, Limpopo Provincial Police spokesperson, said circumstances surrounding the incident that led to the escape are under investigation.
The Provincial Commissioner of SAPS in Limpopo, Lieutenant-General Thembi Hadebe has appointed a team of senior detectives to trace the suspect and investigate the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Police are appealing to anyone who might have information on the whereabouts of the dangerous suspect or information that can help in the investigation to urgently call the crime stop number 08600 10111, the nearest police station or share information using the MySAPSApp.
Members of the community are urged not to attempt to apprehend the suspect as he is deemed dangerous.
