The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed Kgomotso Madiba, who is facing a charge of escape from lawful custody, appeared before the Molopo District Court on Monday (14/9), where he abandoned his bail application. Madiba was arrested in Brits last Wednesday.

The police received information about his movements in the Bojanala subdistrict after his escape on Sunday. Madiba was serving a 20-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping and parole violation.

He was remanded in custody while the case was postponed to 1 October for further investigation and the possible consolidation of charges. At the time of his most recent escape, Madiba was already facing a separate charge of escape from lawful custody. That matter is also scheduled for trial on 1 October.

“While the matter remains under investigation and the NPA is therefore unable to comment in detail on the pending prosecution, it is noteworthy that the accused is currently serving a 25-year term of imprisonment following his conviction on robbery charges.

“The allegations relating to the two escape from lawful custody matters are serious, and the NPA will pursue all appropriate legal avenues to ensure that the matter is thoroughly prosecuted,” said North West NPA spokesperson Lindiwe Mabasa.

The latest escape has raised concerns over security at the correctional facility, which has now recorded a second escape. Popcru in North West said officials cannot be expected to make up for failing infrastructure.

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

The investigation is expected to establish how Madiba managed to escape and whether officials played a role in facilitating his departure from the facility.

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