EASTERN CAPE: The Mthatha based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks is searching for information that could lead to the re-arrest of Khuselo Mkhangeli (24) who escaped police custody while being a prisoner-in transit from Thabazimbi to Mthatha on 28 July 2022.
It is alleged that on 18 June 2021 at about 18:30, Sergeant Mphakameli Mazinywana (48) was fatally wounded by unknown gunmen in his residence at Old Payne Location in Mthatha. Suspects fled with his service pistol.
Three suspects were later arrested in Gqeberha in connection with the murder of Mazinywana. The apprehended trio was Mkhuseli Mkhangeli (24), Sandile Ntsikithi (26) and Siyanda Sanamzi (30). Ntsikithi was released on bail but absconded the court. He was later reported to have been murdered at Nyanga in Cape Town . Sanamzi is already sentenced in another matter while being on trial for Mazinywana’s murder. Mkhangeli because of being a repeat offender was denied bail and remanded in custody for the whole trial period.
On 28 July 2022 at about 19:30 while Mkhangeli was being transported to Mthatha Central after his court appearance in Thabazimbi for a different matter managed to escape lawful custody. The transporting police officials at Norwood in Mthatha next to Engen garage heard a bang and immediately stopped the bakkie. The padlocks were still intact but the door hinges were unscrewed. Mkhangeli is reported to have escaped with leg irons on.
Anyone who might have seen Mkhangeli who is on the picture must immediately contact Captain Sithando the investigating officer of the case on 082 389 5134. The public is warned not to attempt to effect an arrest as he is very dangerous. Information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.