Edward Madiba, a convicted prisoner who escaped from Rooigrond Correctional Centre near Mahikeng on Sunday, has been rearrested in Brits, approximately 72 hours after his escape.
Madiba was arrested following a coordinated search operation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Correctional Services, local farmers and community members.
According to North West police, authorities received information about Madiba’s movements in the Bojanala Sub-District after he was reportedly spotted near Legonyane Village. The information prompted law enforcement agencies to launch a joint operation and intensify their search.
Further intelligence gathered by Brits SAPS detectives indicated that Madiba was moving between the Brits and Damonsville areas. Officers followed up on the leads and eventually located and arrested him at a licensed liquor restaurant in Brits.
Madiba was serving a 20-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping, and parole violation.
Meanwhile, questions have been raised about how Madiba managed to escape from the correctional facility. Correctional Services National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale told the media in Pretoria that preliminary investigations suggest Madiba may have received assistance from officials during his escape.
Eight correctional officers allegedly linked to the escape have since been suspended, while investigations into their possible involvement and the circumstances surrounding Madiba’s escape are continuing.
