Six Dangerous Suspects Escape From Lydenburg Police Cells — Manhunt Under Way

Mpumalanga police have launched an urgent manhunt after six suspects escaped from the Lydenburg police station holding cells in the early hours of Saturday.

The group, arrested on a range of serious charges — including murder, rape, possession of an unlicensed firearm and malicious damage to property — managed to break out unnoticed during the night.

Officers made the discovery at around 2.30am during a routine camp inspection. They initially spotted a leaking water pipe outside one of the holding cells, prompting further checks.

Escape Through Hole in Cell Wall Sparks Urgent Search

Upon closer inspection, officers found a hole in the wall and realised that six detainees had fled. The escaped suspects have been identified as:

• Fana Fenyane
• Isaac Malope
• Sergio Mandoza (Mozambican national)
• Francisco Vasco Maganja (Mozambican national)
• France Malatjie
• Clayton Flank

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Acting provincial commissioner Maj-Gen Zeph Mkhwanazi condemned the escape and confirmed that a full investigation will be conducted to determine how the suspects managed to break free. He vowed that police “will hunt them down and re-arrest them”.

Police are urging the public to report any sightings or information that could lead to the re-arrest of the escapees. Information can be shared anonymously via Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or through the MySAPS App.

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