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C-Max prisoner breaks out
19/11/2006 10:13 - (SA)
Pretoria - A dangerous awaiting trial detainee, Annanias Mathe, escaped from Pretoria's C-Max high security prison at the weekend, using "military precision", correctional services said on Sunday morning.
Mathe, who originally comes from Mozambique, was arrested nearly a year ago on serial rape charges.
He has also been linked to armed robberies, murders and hijackings.
Correctional service spokesperson Manelisi Wolela said that Mathe allegedly removed his handcuffs and broke through a number of small windows and forced himself out onto the roof of the centre in what is seen as military precision to escape.
"His escape route was scanned and professional photographers arrived to take photos. Correctional services, working with the South African Police Services have started an investigation to determine if there was any collusion or negligence," said Wolela.
He had been housed in a section that accommodated hardened criminals and escape risks.
Mathe escaped from custody in C-Max once before - in April last year - after damaging the secure cells.
"At the time of his (2005) escape he was housed just next to the staff office in order to monitor him closely," said Wolela.
Correctional Services and police have launched a manhunt for Mathe.
- SAPA
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