Have you seen him? Awaiting-trial prisoner makes bold escape from police van
Police in Thohoyandou, in Limpopo, have launched a massive manhunt for a 34-year-old awaiting-trial prisoner who escaped from lawful custody on Monday.
Muluvhu Gumani was originally arrested for robbery with a weapon other than a firearm.
“Preliminary reports suggest that the police were transporting 13 awaiting trial prisoners to Thohoyandou Magistrate’s Court.
“While on their way, at an intersection, one of the suspects allegedly forced the police vehicle door open, and fled on foot,” said provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba.
Police have appealed to community members to help with information that can lead to Gumani’s capture.
“We are appealing to members of the community, not to attempt to apprehend the suspect for their safety,” said Ledwaba.
“Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Muluvhe Gumani may contact Detective Captain Sydney Dama on 082 469 1035, Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, alternatively, My SAPS App.”
In June, IOL reported that a suspect who escaped from police custody was rearrested in Limpopo.
At the time, Ledwaba said police officers were on standby duties when they received information about the location of the escaped prisoner.
“They accurately followed the leads, whereby the suspect, aged 34, was arrested at a rented residence at Ga-Manyaka village. During the arrest, he was with his friend. Police searched the place and discovered an unlicensed firearm and suspected stolen property, a cellphone.”
“The cellphone was linked with an armed robbery that was reported in June 2025. Both suspects, aged 34, were then apprehended. His accomplice was arrested for possession of suspected stolen property, while he was arrested for possession of suspected stolen property, possession of an unlicensed firearm, and escaping from lawful custody,” Ledwaba said.
The rearrested escapee prisoner was previously arrested for possession of an unlicensed firearm and armed robbery cases.
jonisayi.maromo@iol.co.za
IOL News