Two Mozambican nationals, suspected of being part of a group involved in a prison break in Maputo last December, were apprehended in Mpumalanga.
According to reports from last month, over 1,500 inmates escaped from a Mozambican prison, taking advantage of the country’s political instability and widespread protests following disputed election results.
This week, the South African Police Service (SAPS) confirmed that the two suspects, aged 25 and 33, were detained by security officers from Polsec in Malelane on Sunday evening.
“The suspects were detained by security personnel after it was suspected that they did not have proper documentation to be in the country,” said Brigadier Donald Mdhluli, spokesperson for the Mpumalanga provincial police.
The political turmoil in Mozambique, which was linked to the contested election outcomes, contributed to the escape.
“Members of SAPS, along with the Department of Home Affairs, were involved in the verification process. After confirming their status, the suspects were charged under the Immigration Act,” Mdhluli explained.
Authorities suspect that the two men are among those who escaped from prison in Mozambique last month.
“Preliminary investigations suggest that these individuals may be connected to the recent prison break in Mozambique. In situations like this, SAPS collaborates with various stakeholders, including Crime Intelligence, the Hawks, Interpol, and the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco),” Mdhluli added.
Additional details about the case will be provided as the investigation continues.
The two men are expected to appear in court soon.
Meanwhile, Major General Zeph Mkhwanazi, acting provincial commissioner of police in Mpumalanga, praised the cooperation between law enforcement agencies in securing the suspects.
“The cooperation and vigilance shown by our officers are commendable. We are proud of this partnership and the collective effort to tackle crime effectively,” said Mkhwanazi.
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