The police transporting awaiting trial prisoners in Limpopo were ambushed by a heavily armed group of men who freed the prisoners. The suspects who accosted the police were travelling in two cars. 

POLICE ATTACKED

 Limpopo police spokesperson Brigadier Motlafela Mojapelo said the police in Makhado were transporting six prisoners on Monday morning when they were ambushed by a group of men. "It is alleged that the suspects accosted the police, shot at them," Mojapelo said. He added that the suspects managed to free the prisoners who are all Zimbabwean internationals and sped off in a grey Mercedes Benz and a white Toyota bakkie.

PUBLIC ADVISED NOT TO APPROACH THE SUSPECTS

Mojapelo advised the public not to approach the suspects under any circumstances as they are considered dangerous. "We advise anyone who sees the suspects not to approach them but call the police or their nearest police station," Mojapelo added. The escapees are:  Forward Shumba (26), Shingirai Nyandome (32), Brilliant Sibanda (26), Erick Sithole (35), Moses Zambara (32) and 35-year-old Alex Nkomo. "The incident happened along the Vivo road next to the first Schoemansdal turnoff outside Louis Trichardt. All escapees are Zimbabwean nationals. The first five were  arrested for aggravated robbery, three counts of attempted murder and unlawful  possession of firearms and ammunition. The last one was arrested for theft of cables," he said.

 The Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe has ordered the mobilization of the necessary Police  resources,  including the air-wing, to hunt down the escapees and the suspects. Anyone with information may contact Colonel Nyelisani Mabatha 082 565 8171, the crime stop number 0860010111