12 escapees still on the run
2007-01-04 12:30
Johannesburg - Most of a group of 21 awaiting-trial prisoners who escaped in Lehurutshe, near Zeerust, on New Year's Eve are still on the run, said police on Thursday.
Captain Elsabé Augoustides said: "So far, nine have been arrested and we are still looking for 12."
The prisoners were facing charges in connection with serious offences including armed robbery, rape, murder and housebreaking when they overpowered a policeman during a routine check on cells and escaped.
Policeman suspended
Augoustides said earlier reports that the policeman's service pistol had been stolen were incorrect.
The policeman was suspended and is facing charges in connection with the safeguarding of prisoners.
Augoustides warned the public that the prisoners were considered dangerous and asked those who knew anything about them to contact their nearest police station.
- SAPA