The Mthatha Based Serious Organised Crime Investigation team of the Hawks is seeking public assistance in recapturing Khuselo Mkhangeli (24), a murder suspect who escaped from a police vehicle while being transported from Thabazimbi to Mthatha on July 28, 2022.
Hawks spokesperson Captain Yolisa Mgolodela said that it is alleged that on June 18, 2021, at about 18:30, Sergeant Mphakameli Mazinywana (48) was fatally wounded by an unknown gunmen at his residence in Old Payne location in Mthatha. The suspects allegedly fled with his service pistol.
“Three suspects were later arrested in Gqeberha in connection to the murder of Mazinywana. The apprehended trio included; Mkhuseli Mkhangeli (24), Sandile Ntsikithi (26), and Siyanda Sanamzi (30). Ntsikithi was released on bail but absconded the court. He was later reported to have been murdered at Nyanga in Cape Town,” said Mgolodela.
He added that Sanamzi was already sentenced in another matter while being on trail for Mazinywana’s murder. She said Mkhangeli was a repeat offender and therefore was denied bail and remanded in custody for the whole trial period.
“On July 28, 2022, at about 19:30 while Mkhangeli was being transported to Mthatha Central after his court appearance in Thabazimbi for a different case, he managed to escape lawful custody. The transporting police officials at Norwood in Mthatha, next to Engen Garage, heard a bang and immediately stopped the bakkie. The padlocks were still intact, but the door hinges were unscrewed.”
Mkhangeli is reported to have escaped with leg irons on, added Mgolodela.
“If seen please contact Investigating Officer on 082 389 5134. The public is warned not to attempt to affect an arrest as the suspect is very dangerous. Information received will be treated with the strictest confidentiality.”
