GEORGE NEWS - George prison escapee Trevor Moilwa (39), who slipped out of the George Correctional Centre nearly two years ago, was quietly located earlier this year, already behind bars in Cape Town.
Reliable sources told George Herald Moilwa was traced to Goodwood Prison, where he had been incarcerated since March after being arrested on unrelated charges.
He is currently serving a 15-year sentence for the illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition, as well as possession of housebreaking implements.
His identity as the George escapee was confirmed in April.
On Tuesday 15 July, Moilwa appeared in the George Magistrate's Court for a second time on charges relating specifically to his August 2023 prison break. His first appearance was in the Knysna Magistrate's Court in May. The case has been postponed to 7 August for further investigation and he remains in custody.
Sources also told the paper he has since been classified at a high-risk prisoner.
Moilwa and Calisto Chaderek (34), a Zimbabwean national who remains on the run, escaped from the George Prison in the early hours of Wednesday 23 August 2023. According to information at the time, they allegedly used a hacksaw to cut through the bars of a bathroom window in the holding cells, then fled through a kitchen area before breaching the electrified perimeter fence.
At the time, Moilwa was awaiting trial on charges of illegal possession of a firearm and stolen goods and was also being investigated for multiple serious offences, including armed robbery. Chaderek faced charges of housebreaking and theft.
Southern Cape police spokes-person Sergeant Chris Spies confirmed Moilwa's rearrest and ongoing prosecution. "A search for the other fugitive, Calisto Chaderek, is still under way," said Spies.
Responding to questions about the circumstances of Moilwa's arrest, whether any accomplices were involved, whether additional charges have been added, and whether any internal investigation followed the 2023 escape, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) said it had immediately launched an internal investigation to determine the factors that led to the escape.
"This investigation has since been finalised. Recommendations were made in terms of disciplinary action to be levelled against the officials. This investigation will, however, be revisited in light of further details secured following Moilwa's arrest," said the DCS's spokesperson, Candice van Reenen.
She said the DCS continues to work with law enforcement agencies in an attempt to secure Chaderek's arrest. She appealed to members of the community to report any information that may lead to his arrest.
The public was also reminded that should they fail to report any contact with Chaderek, they would be deemed as accomplices in the matter.
Tip-offs can be reported to the George Detectives Unit on 044 803 4732 or 082 469 7864. Alternatively, call Crime Stop on 08600 10111 or use the My SAPS app. All information will be treated confidentially.
Previous articles:
- George Prison escapee back in court today
- Prison break: Escapees still at large
- Update: Prison break
- Update: Manhunt launched for two escapees
- Prison break at George
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