The Department of Correctional Services and other law enforcement agencies are currently engaged in a comprehensive search to locate and apprehend an inmate who escaped from a hospital in Tshwane.
Clatta Gumbo, a prisoner serving a life sentence for rape, kidnapping, and assault at Baviaanspoort Correctional Centre, managed to escape from the grounds of Mamelodi Regional Hospital on Monday while receiving medical treatment.
According to Singabakho Nxumalo, the spokesperson for Correctional Services, Gumbo was admitted to the hospital on August 28, 2018, for a consultation with a Dietician. However, during the visit, he attacked the guarding official, disarmed him, and fled from the hospital premises.
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The incident has prompted an immediate and thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. In light of this escape, Correctional Services is urging the public to assist in locating Gumbo.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is encouraged to contact the nearest correctional facility or a police station. Nxumalo emphasized the importance of remaining vigilant and reporting any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities, as public safety is their utmost priority.
The escape of a prisoner is a matter of great concern and poses potential risks to the community. As such, the Department of Correctional Services is working tirelessly to effect a rearrest of Gumbo. The collaboration with other law enforcement agencies ensures that all available resources are being utilized to locate and apprehend the escaped inmate.
The Department of Correctional Services and other law enforcement agencies are conducting a widespread search to locate the whereabouts of a prisoner who escaped from a hospital in Tshwane while receiving treatment. #PrisonBreak #Escape @TheCitizen_News pic.twitter.com/V75i6uLXWR
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The incident highlights the need for enhanced security measures within correctional facilities and during the transportation of inmates to external locations, such as hospitals. While the circumstances surrounding Gumbo’s escape are still under investigation, it is crucial to identify any vulnerabilities in existing protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The Department of Correctional Services is committed to ensuring the safety and security of both inmates and the public. Efforts are being made to review and strengthen security protocols to mitigate the risk of escapes and enhance the overall effectiveness of the correctional system.
Regular training and evaluation of staff members are also essential to ensure their preparedness in handling potential security breaches.
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