JHB High Court prisoner escape update: Murder suspects still on the run

Prisoners escaped from custody at the Johannesburg High Court on Friday morning, leading to a full evacuation and shutdown of the building.

Awaiting trial prisoners ‘on the run’

While it was originally speculated that six prisoners had escaped their holding cells, Gauteng Police spokesperson, Lieutenant Kay Makhubela, confirmed that only two prisoners were unaccounted for – police officers are currently attending to the scene. According to the spokesperson, the High Court building has been placed on lockdown in an effort to mitigate interference into the investigation.

Speaking to reporters outside the High Court, Makhubela explained that the awaiting trial prisoners, who were being transferred from Johannesburg central prison, escaped from custody shortly after being ushered into the building, saying:

“During rush of court – when the police were transporting the prisoners from Johannesburg prison – when they arrived at Johannesburg High Court, two prisoners managed to escape.

What we’re trying to establish is how they escaped from the court.”

Police officers on the scene are combing the building and surround precinct for clues. Earlier reports indicated that the missing convicts were still holed up somewhere inside the High Court building itself. Makhubela, however, insinuated that the escapees had made their way out of the building. The police spokesperson appealed to the community for assistance, saying:

“We are calling for the community out there to assist police with information.”

Escapees charged with murder

Police sources also revealed that the two escapees were appearing in court on charges of murder. Makhubela urged members of the community not to try and apprehend the prisoners, saying:

“We are appealing to the community not to try and apprehend them – as they are dangerous – inform the nearest police station.”

This is a developing story – check back for more information.