Thabazimbi police have launched a manhunt after a 30-year-old awaiting trial prisoner escaped from hospital on Saturday evening. The suspect, identified as Sibongeseni Khumalo, allegedly slipped away after asking to use the bathroom while under police guard at Thabazimbi Hospital at about 6pm on 28 February.

Khumalo was in custody on a business robbery charge. He had been shot during his arrest and was admitted to hospital under police guard. Police say the circumstances of the escape are now under internal investigation.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the incident on Sunday. “The suspect requested to visit the bathroom and ultimately escaped. A manhunt has since been launched,” said Ledwaba.

According to police, Khumalo was being guarded while receiving medical treatment when he managed to flee.The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has ordered officers to use all available resources to track and trace the suspect.

Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact the investigating officer, Captain Du Plessis, on 082 565 7611, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp. Police investigations are continuing.

Thabazimbi police have launched a manhunt after a 30-year-old awaiting trial prisoner escaped from hospital on Saturday evening. The suspect, identified as Sibongeseni Khumalo, allegedly slipped away after asking to use the bathroom while under police guard at Thabazimbi Hospital at about 6pm on 28 February.

Khumalo was in custody on a business robbery charge. He had been shot during his arrest and was admitted to hospital under police guard. Police say the circumstances of the escape are now under internal investigation.

Provincial police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba confirmed the incident on Sunday. “The suspect requested to visit the bathroom and ultimately escaped. A manhunt has since been launched,” said Ledwaba.

According to police, Khumalo was being guarded while receiving medical treatment when he managed to flee.The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, has ordered officers to use all available resources to track and trace the suspect.

Anyone with information that could assist police is urged to contact the investigating officer, Captain Du Plessis, on 082 565 7611, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or use the MySAPSApp. Police investigations are continuing.