Handcuffed and barefoot: How did an awaiting-trial prisoner escape from Tzaneen police station?
Police in Tzaneen, located in the Mopani District in Limpopo, have launched a manhunt for an awaiting-trial prisoner who escaped from lawful custody at the Tzaneen SAPS on Friday at approximately 11 am.
The suspect, Leonard Letswalo, 20, had been arrested a day earlier, on Thursday, on a charge of unlawful possession of ammunition. Police said he allegedly escaped while being formally charged inside the police station.
According to the South African Police Service (SAPS), Letswalo fled the scene on foot and could not be traced despite immediate searches conducted in and around the Tzaneen CBD, the Ritavi River and Lephephane Village.
At the time of his escape, the suspect was still handcuffed, with the handcuffs locked to the front.
Letswalo is described as short and slender, about 1.58m tall, light in complexion, with a beard and a brush-cut hairstyle. He was wearing a black short, a blue hoodie and was barefoot when he escaped.
Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said officers were following up on leads and urged community members to assist law enforcement.
“Police are appealing to members of the public not to approach the suspect but to immediately report any information regarding his whereabouts to the nearest police station,” said Ledwaba.
Anyone with information that may assist police in apprehending the suspect is urged to contact the investigating officer Sergeant Themba Ngobeni on 079 298 9609 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPS App.
Investigations are continuing.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
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