Manhunt underway as dangerous rapist escapes Pietermaritzburg prison
Thulani Gcaleka who is serving a life sentence for serious offences ranging from rape, robbery, housebreaking, attempted murder, and attempted rape has escaped from Sevontein Correctional Centre in Pietermaritzburg in KwaZulu-Natal.
Image: DCS
A manhunt is currently underway following the dramatic escape of Thulani Gcaleka, a convicted rapist and house robber, from the Sevontein Correctional Centre in Pietermaritzburg, KwaZulu-Natal, on Thursday. Authorities remain on high alert as they intensify their efforts to locate the fugitive who was serving a life sentence for a series of heinous crimes.
Gcaleka was reportedly part of a cleaning work team assigned to tasks at the prison farm when he managed to escape. The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed the incident through spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo, who indicated that a preliminary report suggested Gcaleka took advantage of his work duties to flee.
“The offender was part of a cleaning work team assigned to duties at the prison farm at the time of the escape,” Nxumalo stated. He also highlighted that an internal investigation is currently being conducted to ascertain the exact circumstances that allowed this escape to occur. In light of the incident, Nxumalo assured the public that the DCS would take swift action against any breaches of security protocols or lapses in adherence to prescribed operational standards.
“The outcome of the investigation will guide the necessary disciplinary action and corrective measures to be undertaken in line with the Correctional Services Act,” he added.
As Gcaleka remains at large, the DCS has urged the public to remain vigilant. Nxumalo emphasised the importance of community involvement in the search, encouraging anyone who may spot Gcaleka or have information regarding his whereabouts to immediately contact the nearest police station or correctional facility.
“The re-arrest of the escapee remains a priority. All necessary resources have been mobilised to ensure a swift apprehension of the escapee,” he affirmed. The escape has heightened public concern regarding prison security and management, prompting discussions about the adequacy of safety measures in place to prevent such incidents in the future.
This is a developing story.
robin.francke@iol.co.za
IOL
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