Rapist and robber escape

TWO convicted inmates escaped from the Zwelitsha Magistrate’s Court in King William’s Town yesterday after overpowering a prison guard and stealing his firearm and vehicle.

The incident occurred at about 2pm when the two men, one convicted of rape and another of robbery, were taken out of the Middledrift Correctional Centre to face additional charges in court.

“After they had appeared, they were being escorted to a vehicle when the men took on the official and managed to get his firearm,” Correctional Services spokeswoman Vuyo Gadu said.

“He was disarmed and the [marked correctional services] vehicle stolen.”

By 3pm, an alert had been sent to police officials across the province to be on the lookout for the vehicle.

The suspects are Lwandile Lolwana, 30, and Nkosana Mpe, 35.

Police and Correctional Services officials were still searching for the men last night. – Gareth Wilson