Second prison escape reported in less than 24 hours

The department of correctional services on Thursday reported that a 'dangerous' convict has escaped from the Barberton Correctional Facility in Mpumalanga.

After raping his 12-year-old step-sister in 2012, Gugu Honono targeted other young women near his village. File photo.
After raping his 12-year-old step-sister in 2012, Gugu Honono targeted other young women near his village. File photo. (123RF)

The department of correctional services on Thursday reported that another convict has escaped.

A prisoner fled from the Barberton Correctional Facility in Mpumalanga.

This was the second escape case recorded in less than 24 hours after three prisoners escaped from a Western Cape prison on Wednesday night. One of them was rearrested shortly afterwards.

Convicted murderer, rapist and robber Amos Mashaba has escaped from Barberton prison.
Convicted murderer, rapist and robber Amos Mashaba has escaped from Barberton prison. (Supplied / DCS)

Department spokesperson Sechaba Mphahlele said they were still probing how the Barberton inmate escaped.

“An investigation has been instituted and the circumstances relating to the escape will be revealed once it has been concluded,” he said.

“The name of the inmate is Amos Shabangu Mashaba. He is 46, from Bushbuckridge, Cunningmore A. He was convicted of rape, theft, murder and robbery. He is serving a life sentence at Barberton Medium B.”

The department has called on the public to assist with any information that may lead to Mashaba’s rearrest.

“He is considered dangerous and if spotted, information should be shared with the nearest police station.” 

TimesLIVE



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