TZANEEN POLICE LAUNCH MANHUNT FOR ESCAPED AWAITING-TRIAL PRISONER

TZANEEN : Police in Tzaneen under the Mopani District have launched a manhunt for an awaiting-trial prisoner who escaped from lawful custody at the Tzaneen SAPS on Friday, 23 January 2026 at approximately 11:00.

The information received from the police spokesperson Colonel Malesela Ledwaba, the suspect, Leonard Letswalo (20), was arrested on Thursday, 22 January 2026, for unlawful possession of ammunition. He allegedly escaped while being charged within the police station premises.

The suspect fled the scene on foot and could not be located despite immediate tracing efforts conducted around Tzaneen CBD, Ritavi River, and Lephepane Village. At the time of escape, the suspect was still handcuffed, with the handcuffs locked to the front.

The suspect is described as a short, slender male, approximately 1.58 meters tall, light in complexion, with a beard and brush-cut hairstyle. He was wearing a black short, a blue hoodie, and was barefoot at the time of escape.

Police are appealing to members of the public not to approach the suspect but to immediately report any information regarding his whereabouts to the nearest police station.

Anyone with information that may assist police in apprehending the suspect is urged to contact the investigating officer Sergeant Themba Ngobeni on 079 298 9609 or Crime Stop number 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPS App.

Police investigations are continuing.
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