Dangerous Prisoner Serving Life Sentence Escapes KZN Correctional Centre

A high-risk prisoner serving a life sentence is on the run after escaping from a correctional facility in the Pietermaritzburg area, prompting an urgent manhunt.

Life-Term Prisoner Escapes Pietermaritzburg Prison

Thulani Gcaleka, who is serving a life sentence for a string of serious crimes, escaped from Sevontein Correctional Centre in the Pietermaritzburg district on Thursday, 5 February.

Gcaleka was convicted of attempted murder, rape, attempted rape, robbery and housebreaking with the intent to commit an offence.

According to the Department of Correctional Services, the escape happened while the inmate was taking part in routine work duties outside the main facility.

“A preliminary report indicates the offender was part of a cleaning work team assigned to duties at the prison farm at the time of the escape,” said department spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo.

Authorities have not yet disclosed how Gcaleka managed to evade supervision.

Manhunt Underway as Investigation Launched

Nxumalo confirmed that an internal probe has been launched to determine how the breach occurred and whether procedures were followed.

“An internal investigation has been instituted to establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident. The department will act without hesitation against any form of security breach or deviation from prescribed standard operating procedures. The outcome of the investigation will guide the necessary disciplinary action and corrective measures to be undertaken in line with the Correctional Services Act.”

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He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the escapee.

Nxumalo also appealed for assistance, asking anyone with information on Gcaleka’s whereabouts to contact the nearest police station or correctional facility.

“Necessary resources have been mobilised to ensure the swift apprehension of the offender.”