The Anti-Gang Unit is spearheading a search for six trial awaiting prisoners who escaped from the Athlone Magistrates’ court holding cells this afternoon at about 13:45 as they were about to be transported to a correctional holding facility following their respective court appearances earlier today.

Preliminary investigation suggests that the detainees overpowered one of the police official and disarmed him. Several shots were fired in the direction of the police officials but no one was hit or wounded. Thereafter the escapees between the ages 20 and 33 fled the scene on foot.

An appeal is made to the community to please refrain from approaching or confronting these escapees as they are deemed to be armed and dangerous. They stand accused of serious offences such as murder, attempted murder, Assault and robberies aggravated as well as the possession of stolen property.

The public are advised to report any suspicious persons and/or the whereabouts of these escapees to the nearest police station or Crime
Stop at 08600 10111 or Capt Jacques Cussel can be contacted directly at 079 894 1637.

Escape from lawful custody, attempted murder and robbery of a firearm cases have been registered at Athlone police station that will be probed by our Provincial Detectives.

Meanwhile the rapid response from the members involved led to the rearrests of one of the six escapees with the search for the outstanding escapees continuing.

Source: South African Police Service