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Esacaped Murder Accused Rearrested

POTCHEFSTROOM – The North West South African Police Service have rearrested a murder accused who escaped from police custody while being transported for medical treatment to Maganeng Clinic on Tuesday, 02 September 2026.

It is alleged that the detainee, Tshepo Lobelo, was among four detainees who were transported from Pudimoe Police Station to Maganeng Clinic for medical treatment. Upon arrival at the clinic at approximately 10:50, Lobelo allegedly escaped from police custody and fled into nearby bushes.

A search operation was immediately launched, and the 72-Hour Activation Plan was invoked. A multidisciplinary team comprising various SAPS units and specialised resources was mobilised to trace and rearrest the escapee.

At approximately 19:45 on the same day, the team successfully rearrested Lobelo.

Lobelo was initially arrested in connection with a murder case committed in 2024. At the time of his escape, the matter had been remanded to Monday, 07 December 2026.

He will now face an additional charge of escaping from lawful custody and is expected to appear before the Pudimoe Magistrate’s Court on Friday, 04 September 2026.

The circumstances surrounding the escape from custody will be investigated, including the circumstances relating to the transportation, restraint and supervision of the detainee.

The Provincial Commissioner of North West, Lieutenant General Arthur Adams, has commended the multidisciplinary team for their swift response and the successful rearrest of the escapee.

“An escape from lawful custody is a serious matter, and every effort will be made to ensure that those who attempt to evade the justice system are brought back to face the full might of the law. We commend all the members who worked tirelessly to ensure that the escapee was rearrested within hours,” said Lieutenant General Adams.

Investigations into the escape from custody are ongoing.

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