By Obakeng Maje
Mmabatho- The Police in Mmabatho have launched a manhunt after 7 awaiting trial detainees escaped from lawful custody in the early hours of today, 18 February 2014 at approximately 01:00.

The escapees include Solomon Moleko who is commonly known as “hammer-man” charged with Rape and Murder. The others are Patrick Bogodile charged with Theft of Motor vehicle, Gaothaelwe Lesole facing a charge of House robbery, Boitumelo Moiloa charged with murder, Goitseone Mogodunyane charged with possession of suspected stolen property, Charles Pheta facing a charge of Car hi-jacking and robbery as well as Mogomotsi Sebolane who is also facing a charge of car hi-jacking and robbery.

“The suspects allegedly escaped by cutting the mesh wire of the cell and of the ceiling and finally escaped” brigadier Thulani Ngubane said.

The Police are appealing to the community members to assist in arresting the suspects. Anyone with the information of the suspects is urged to call the Mmabatho Police Station on (018) 387 7500 or Crime Stop no. 08600 10111.

“The community is warned not to arrest the suspects in case they see them, but to report them to the nearest police station. Escape from lawful custody have been registered for investigation” Ngubane said.

Police said circumstances that led to the escape will be investigated and if it can be found that there was negligence by the police, necessary steps will be taken.-TDN
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