Categories: Latest News

31 prisoners escape as gunmen hijack prison truck

31 prisoners are on the run after a prison truck transporting them to court was hijacked by heavily armed gunmen in Pietermaritzburg, KZN, South Africa on Wednesday morning, April 28.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson, Brigadier Jay Naicker, who confirmed the incident said that at around 8 am, two police officers were transporting prisoners from the PMB new prison to the Pietermaritzburg Magistrate’s Court when they were blocked off by a double cab bakkie with 5 “heavily armed” gunmen.

“The suspects pointed firearms at the police officers and forced open the rear of the truck. 31 awaiting trial prisoners escaped out of the 45 that were in the truck. A manhunt is underway for the escapees,” Naicker stated.

Some sources have said the vehicle was ‘hijacked’, and although the crooks managed to gain control of the vehicle and its occupants, it’s understood they didn’t drive away in the van after it was badly damaged by gunshots.

The corners of Edendale and Devonshire road have been closed off to traffic, and a police delegation is now attending the scene. A large-scale manhunt has already got underway and more details have been received from SAPS.

In a voice note being circulated on WhatsApp, residents were urged to be vigilant and keep their houses locked as the prisoners would be looking for new clothes.

Treasure Orokpo

A multi-talented individual with a passion for diverse fields, Treasure Orokpo is a trained journalist, skilled cook, and AI enthusiast. When she's not uncovering the latest stories, you can find her whipping up culinary creations in the kitchen and entertainment.

Recent Posts

Soaring rice prices threaten Christmas celebrations for Nigerian families

Rice, a staple for Christmas celebrations in Nigeria, has become a luxury this year. Soaring…

23 hours ago

Panic as Stage collapses during Odumodublvck’s performance at Lagos concert

Panic erupted on Saturday at a concert in Lagos when the stage collapsed during Odumodublvck’s…

23 hours ago

2025 Budget: FG allocates ₦6.36bn for renovation of Tinubu, Shettima’s official quarters

The Federal Government of Nigeria has allocated ₦6,364,181,224 billion for the refurbishment and rehabilitation of…

23 hours ago

Black Market Dollar to Naira Exchange Rate Today 22nd December 2024

The black market dollar to naira exchange rate for today, 22nd December 2024, can be…

23 hours ago

NNPC debunks shutdown rumors, confirms fuel loading at Port Harcourt Refinery

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) has refuted claims that the 60,000 barrels per…

23 hours ago

‘We have to find a way’ – Guardiola laments after defeat to Aston Villa

Manchester City finds itself in unprecedented turmoil, with relegation-level form showing little sign of improvement.…

1 day ago