Update

GEORGE NEWS - The manhunt for the two trial awaiting prisoners, Trevor Moliwa (37) and Calisto Chaderek (32), who escaped from George Prison at about 04:00 on Wednesday 23 August, continues at full intensity.

According to previous reports from the police, Chaderek - a Zimbabwean citizen - was in custody on charges of housebreaking and theft, while Moliwa - a South African - was in custody on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and possession of stolen items. 

However, George Herald has reliably been informed that dozens of serious cases, including armed house robbery, are being investigated against Moliwa.

The police did not want to respond to these allegations.

While both the police and the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) remain tight-lipped about the specifics of the recent escape, George Herald learned that it was meticulously planned in advance.

Information received by George Herald indicates that the two prisoners allegedly cut their way through the bars in one of the bathrooms in the holding cells and escaped near the kitchen in the backyard. 

The bars through which they allegedly escaped are extremely narrow, but parts are believed to have been cut away with a hacksaw. The escape allegedly remained undiscovered until officials reported for duty in the morning.

The possibility that the fugitives had help has also not been ruled out at this stage. There is also great uncertainty about how exactly the two escaped from the cell where the unsentenced prisoners were kept.

It is believed that both men were picked up by the prison's CCTV cameras as they moved across the roof, but it is unclear why no one noticed them and raised the alarm.

According to information, the two then cut through the electrified wire fence and fled.

In the meantime, the search continues countrywide and beyond the South African boarders. Various clues and information are being followed up on a daily basis.

At this stage no one can confirm whether there are any indications that the two are still in George or the surrounding areas.

Southern Cape police spokesperson Sgt Chris Spies, yesterday said the circumstances surrounding the escape forms part of their investigation and their search for the escapees continues. 

"This office is not in a position to divulge further information pertaining to their detention at this stage. We urge the public to come forward with any information which could assist police with the investigation," he said.

A spokesperson for DCS, Candice van Reenen said the department continues to follow up on a number of leads to enable the arrest of the fugitives.

"DCS has amplified its recovery efforts through its partnership with law enforcement agencies, such as the South African Police Service, Metro Police, Anti-Gang Unit, neighbourhood watches and organised crime units. DCS continues to call on the public to report any information which could lead to their arrest," she said.

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