It is alleged that on Tuesday 18 October 2022 at about 04:00, seven prisoners escaped from Makhanda correctional facility. It is reported that when the officer arrived for standby duties to visit the prison, she then saw lights that were on in one of the units. It was then discovered that seven prisoners escaped through a window.
The circumstances surrounding the incident are said to be forming part of the investigation. Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Nomthetheleli Mene has implemented a 72-hour activation plan following the incident. Police opened a case of Escaping from Lawful Custody for further investigation. The escaped prisoners have been identified and are believed to be as follows:
- Nhamo Muyambo
- Francis Chito
- Trymore Chauke
- Lubuyo September
- Abraham Moyane
- Simba Masinge
- Bennet Kwarrile
The Eastern Cape Police are warning the community that these prisoners are dangerous and should not be approached and instead police must be contacted. Communities are also urged not to protect these criminals as they will be committing an offence, if found to be aiding and abetting them.
