By REGINALD KANYANE
2 June 2025- Four policemen who allegedly aided and abetted the escape of a detainee briefly appeared in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court. The accused, Jack Motlhabya (37), Menzi Shabalala (38), Ntuthuko Dladla (40) and Samkelo Mbotho (38), were arrested in January 2025, following allegations that they assisted a detainee, James Neo Tshoaeli, a Lesotho national known as Tiger in escaping during a Vala Umgodi operation in Stilfontein.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) regional spokesperson in North West, Sivenathi Gunya said the accused are facing charges of defeating the ends of justice and aiding and abetting the escape of a detainee. Gunya said according to evidence presented in court on 15 January 2025, several illegal miners were rescued and brought to the surface from a mine shaft in Stilfontein.
“They were arrested by SAPS members deployed as part of the Vala Umgodi operations. One individual, known only as “Tiger” was identified by several of the illegal miners as being in charge of operations underground.
“Tiger managed to escape on the same day. An investigation was launched by the Anti-Corruption Unit, leading to the arrest of the four SAPS officials. The accused were granted bail of R1 000 each during their first court appearance,” he said.
Gunya further said the matter has been postponed to 8 July 2025, for further investigation. He added that their bail has been extended until their next appearance.
The Guardian 