Five men escapes police custody from Athlone Magistrate’s Court

Police are searching for five men who escaped from police custody in Athlone on Wednesday afternoon.

According to the police, six trial-awaiting prisoners overpowered a police officer and disarmed him while they were waiting for transport following their appearance at the Athlone Magistrate’s Court.

They escaped on foot after firing several shots at the police. No one was injured or killed during the shooting.

Police spokesperson, Colonel Malcolm Pojie, says one of the suspects has since been rearrested.

The escapees are accused of serious offences, such as murder, attempted murder, assault, aggravated robbery, and possession of stolen property.

"Our provincial detectives will probe that," said Pojie.

Police warned members of the public to report any suspicious people or the whereabouts of these escapees to the nearest police station.

Information about the escapees can be reported to Crime Stop at 08600 10111 or Captain Jacques Cussel directly at 079 894 1637.

 

Done by: Alungile Njemla