IOL Yanga Wayithi who escaped from Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in the Western Cape has been rearrested. Picture: Supplied / Department of Correctional Services.
Image: Picture: Supplied / DSC
Three days after his brazen escape, Pollsmoor prisoner Yanga Wayithi is back behind bars.
The Department of Correctional Services confirmed that Wayithi was apprehended in the early hours of Wednesday morning.
The 35-year-old is currently serving a six-month sentence for theft and trespassing when escaped from Pollsmoor Correctional Centre in the Western Cape on Sunday.
DCS spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said Wayithi was arrested following a coordinated law enforcement operation.
"He is now back in custody at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre and will face additional charges related to his escape from lawful custody."
Wayithi was assigned to a work team responsible for maintaining the facility’s grounds.
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.
"This arrest reaffirms our commitment to upholding the integrity of the correctional system.
"We remain resolute in ensuring that all offenders are held accountable and that public safety remains our top priority," said Thobakgale.
He added that a full-scale investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the escape.
"Appropriate measures will be taken against any lapses identified. Additionally, security protocols at Pollsmoor Correctional Centre are under review to prevent similar incidents in the future."
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