Edward Kgomotso Madiba was arrested in Brits on Wednesday (9/9), following information received by police regarding his movements in the Bojanala subdistrict. Madiba was serving a 20-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping and parole violation.

“Following information that the escapee had been seen in the vicinity of Legonyane Village, a coordinated search operation was activated. The operation brought together members of SAPS, the department of correctional services and local farmers, with teams conducting searches and following up on intelligence leads,” said North West police spokesperson Col. Adéle Myburgh.

Further intelligence received by the Brits SAPS Detectives indicated Madiba was moving between the Brits and Damonsville areas. The information was promptly followed up, resulting in the escapee being located and arrested at a licensed liquor outlet in Brits.

Madiba was subsequently handed over to officials from the department of correctional services and transported back to the Rooigrond facility, where he will face further charges of escaping from lawful custody, she added. North West police commissioner Lt. Gen. Arthur Adams welcomed the successful outcome of the operation and praised all those who contributed to the search and arrest.

“This successful rearrest demonstrates the value of timely intelligence, coordinated operations and strong cooperation between law enforcement agencies, correctional services and communities. I commend every member who remained committed to locating this escapee and ensuring that he was returned to custody.”

The second escape from the facility has raised concerns, with the Police and Prisons Civil Rights Union (Popcru) in North West saying officials cannot be expected to make up for failing infrastructure.

Meanwhile, correctional services national commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale said Madiba was allegedly assisted by some officials to escape. Eight officials from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre have been suspended pending an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape.

 OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi sm

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