Handcuffed prisoner escapes Tzaneen police station, manhunt launched

Police in Tzaneen have launched a manhunt for a 20-year-old awaiting-trial prisoner who escaped from lawful custody at the Tzaneen SAPS, fleeing the station on foot while still handcuffed, with the restraints locked to the front.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba said the suspect, Leonard Letswalo, was arrested on Thursday, January 22, for unlawful possession of ammunition and allegedly escaped while being processed inside the police station.

The escape occurred on Friday, January 24, at around 11:00.

The Star understands that despite immediate tracing efforts conducted around the Tzaneen CBD, Ritavi River, and Lephephane Village, the suspect could not be located.

“At the time of the escape, the suspect was still handcuffed, with the handcuffs locked to the front,” Ledwaba said.

Ledwaba described Letswalo as a short, slender male, approximately 1.58 metres tall, light in complexion, with a beard and a brush-cut hairstyle. He was wearing a black short, a blue hoodie and was barefoot at the time of his escape.

Police have urged members of the public not to approach the suspect but to immediately report any information regarding his whereabouts to the nearest police station.

Anyone with information that may assist police in apprehending the suspect is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Themba Ngobeni, on 079 298 9609, the Crime Stop number on 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPS App.

Police investigations are continuing.

The Star

masabata.mkwananzi@inl.co.za