Cape Town - The prisoner who meticulously planned his “jail break” from Pollsmoor Correctional Centre on Sunday has been found and arrested after hiding out in Rosebank.

Justine Gericke, Regional Manager: Eastern Cape Management Region Magistrates Court, JCIS, Judicial Inspectorate for Correctional Services confirmed the arrest: “I can confirm that the escapee has been apprehended early this morning and is currently in custody at Pollsmoor Medium B awaiting charges from SAPS.”

Police launched the manhunt for Yanga Wayithi, 35, who escaped on Sunday, February 9, while conducting his maintenance work as a cleaner.

Wayithi is serving a six month sentence for theft and trespassing.

Gericke previously detailed how the prisoner had planned his escape and could not be detected on camera footage in the vicinity of the K9 unit.

Singabakho Nxumalo of the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) explained that a case of escape from lawful custody was opened.

She said upon further investigation, Wayithi’s clothing was found hidden in a bid to hide his tracks.

"He is now back in custody at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre and will face additional charges related to his escape from lawful custody."

DCS said details surrounding his escape will be subject to an investigation.

The National Commissioner of Correctional Services, Makgothi Thobakgale commended the swift action of the officials who were involved in the operation.

Cape Argus