Awaiting-trial prisoners escape

South Gauteng High Court security under scrutiny as two dangerous inmates make their getaway

MAYHEM broke out at the South Gauteng High Court in Johannesburg when two awaiting-trial prisoners escaped, creating panic.

Police are hunting for Andisile Ncanyelo, 29, and Thokozani Khumalo, 28, who allegedly fled through the rear of the building.

Khumalo is facing three counts of murder and two of attempted murder, and was due to appear for a pre-trial hearing.

Ncanyelo was to be sentenced for murder and attempted murder, along with two accomplices, according to Lieutenant Kay Makhubele.

All court proceedings were adjourned as police secured the premises. Bystanders watched as the police scrambled to find the inmates, while officers searched desperately outside the premises until noon.

While it has not been confirmed how the prisoners escaped, bystanders blamed a poor security system at the court.

Some claimed to have seen the pair running through the CBD.

The police had to unlock the court after searching without any success for most of the morning, to allow normal functioning of the court.

Yesterday, Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Khumalo could not comment on the matter, directing all enquiries to the SAPS as the inmates escaped while in its custody.

Security at under scrutiny other breaks.

Last year, two awaiting-trial prisoners – Mongezi Mcunukelwa, 31, and Sbonelo Nkosingiphe Thwala, 25 – escaped from the same court. Mcunukelwa was convicted and sentenced the court has come following numerous to two life terms after his recapture.

Earlier this year, the office of the Chief Justice announced that an operational plan at the court was being reviewed.

Judge President Dunstan Mlambo met representatives from various parties, including the judiciary, the police and the National Prosecuting Authority, Correctional Services officials and the Johannesburg Bar, to discuss security at the court.