A manhunt is underway in Cape Town after four prisoners awaiting trial escaped from the holding cells at the Wynberg Magistrates Court.
The escape has reignited concerns about systemic weaknesses in South Africa’s criminal justice system.
According to police spokesperson Wesley Twigg, a total of six detainees between the ages of 21 and 34 attempted to flee from custody during the incident.
While two were swiftly re-arrested, four remain at large, prompting widespread search efforts across the city.
“A case of escape from lawful custody has been opened, and all leads are being followed to locate the fugitives,” Twigg confirmed.
Repeat Offender Among Escapees
One of the escapees has been identified as a repeat offender from Hanover Park, with a known history of evading police detention.
This individual previously escaped from the Philippi police cells in 2023 and had been denied bail due to his high flight risk and past attempts to flee.
The escape has drawn sharp criticism from public officials and has renewed debate over security lapses in the country’s justice system.
Nicholas Gotsell, a member of Parliament and the Parliamentary Select Committee on Security and Justice, condemned what he described as a “lack of integration” between the South African Police Service (SAPS), the Department of Justice, and Correctional Services.
“The system still relies heavily on manual processes, which makes it vulnerable to manipulation,” said Gotsell.
“In some cases, detainees swap identities with cellmates who face less serious charges, exploiting the absence of proper biometric verification.”
Gotsell called for urgent reforms, including a secure, centralised biometric system linking SAPS, courts, and correctional facilities.
Such a system, he argued, would reduce opportunities for identity fraud and prevent high-risk individuals from slipping through the cracks.
Public Alert and Safety Concerns
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity or sightings of the escaped individuals.
Residents, especially those in the southern suburbs and Hanover Park area, have been advised to exercise caution.
Anyone with information is encouraged to contact the SAPS Crime Stop hotline on 08600 10111 or submit anonymous tips via the MySAPS app.
Ongoing Investigation
As the manhunt continues, authorities have yet to explain the precise circumstances that led to the escape.
Internal investigations are underway to determine whether negligence or collusion played a role.
Meanwhile, civil society organisations have renewed calls for increased funding, digitisation, and better oversight of court holding facilities, warning that without meaningful reform, more such escapes are likely in future.
