A dramatic escape attempt at Selebi-Phikwe Prison ended in tragedy this afternoon (Monday 25 May) after a 26-year-old male was fatally shot while allegedly trying to flee from custody.
According to Selebi-Phikwe Station Commander, Superintendent Moathodi Makumula, the fatal incident occurred just after 1pm.
“The young man was expected to appear before court on a matter of rape on 11 June,” Supt. Makumula revealed, adding officers monitoring the prison from an elevated tower immediately noticed the escape attempt.
In a desperate effort to stop him, a prison guard reportedly fired two warning shots into the air.
However, the suspect seemingly ignored the warnings and continued running toward freedom.
Moments later, a third shot was fired. The bullet struck the remandee, bringing the escape attempt to a sudden, bloody end.
He was later pronounced dead.
Authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident to establish the full sequence of events. The deceased’s identity has not been released pending notification of his family.
Meanwhile, Superintendent Makumul appealed to the public against speculation as investigations continue.
