KEY POINTS
- Inmate Yanga Wayithi escaped from Pollsmoor Prison while assigned to a work team, triggering a manhunt and internal investigation.
- His escape follows heightened scrutiny of the DCS, which is under pressure to address security lapses after Thabo Bester’s infamous jailbreak in 2022.
- Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant as SAPS and the DCS trace teamwork to recapture Wayithi and prevent further escapes.
The Department of Correctional Services (DCS) has confirmed that a prisoner, Yanga Wayithi, escaped from Pollsmoor Correctional Centre on Tuesday, raising fresh concerns over prison security.
The 35-year-old inmate was serving a six-month sentence for theft and trespassing when he fled from the facility.
According to the DCS, Wayithi was assigned to a work team tasked with maintaining the prison’s grounds. It remains unclear how he managed to break free while under supervision.
“The South African Police Service (SAPS) has been informed, and a case of escape from lawful custody has been opened. Additionally, the DCS tracing team is actively pursuing leads to facilitate his swift rearrest,” the department stated.
Officials have also initiated an internal investigation to determine the circumstances that led to the escape. The findings will shape further corrective actions to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Public Urged to Assist as Manhunt Intensifies
In response to the escape, the department has launched a manhunt for Wayithi and has urged the public to report any suspicious activity that could aid in his capture.
Wayithi’s escape comes at a time when the DCS is under intense scrutiny. The department is currently briefing Parliament on its compliance with the Public Protector’s remedial actions following the high-profile escape of convicted rapist and murderer Thabo Bester from Mangaung Correctional Centre.
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