The SAPS in Thohoyandou have confirmed the re-arrest of 28-year-old Prophet Fhimani Azwinndini, also known as Rudzani Dzhabuli, who escaped from lawful custody on 14 January while under police guard at Tshilidzini Hospital.
Azwinndini was initially arrested for the brutal murder of his 14-month-old daughter, Manwatha Ndingatshilidzi, whose tragic death on 4 January sent shockwaves through the Ha-Mphego community. The toddler's lifeless body was discovered in an abandoned house in Ha-Mphego village.
Police reports revealed a harrowing scene: the child's body was covered with a blue jacket, her head resting on a red shirt, showing clear signs of severe injuries, including blood in her nostrils and ears. This gruesome discovery prompted an urgent manhunt for Azwinndini.
While in custody, Azwinndini attempted suicide and was taken to Tshilidzini Hospital for treatment. However, he escaped by climbing out of a hospital window, sparking a second intense search.
On Saturday, 18 January, his flight came to an end, thanks to the vigilance of Ha-Mphego residents, who alerted the authorities after spotting him. Before the police could arrive, community members reportedly apprehended Azwinndini and assaulted him, leaving him severely injured and unable to speak. He is now back in custody, with additional charges of escape pending against him. A case of attempted murder has also been registered for the assault he suffered at the hands of the community.
Members of the Ha-Mphego community have expressed their outrage and demanded strict measures to prevent another escape. Azwitamisi Masala, a local SANCO safety representative, voiced the community's frustrations, stating, "His escape brought fear and pain to our already grieving hearts. We couldn't sit back and wait; we had to act to protect the victim's family and our community. We demand that he remains behind bars - he does not deserve bail."
Lt-Gen Thembi Hadebe, the Provincial Commissioner of Police in Limpopo, thanked the Ha-Mphego community for their assistance in recapturing the suspect. However, she strongly condemned acts of mob justice. "While we appreciate the community's role in ensuring this fugitive's capture, we must remind everyone that no one is above the law. Taking the law into your own hands is a punishable offence. We urge residents to work with the police through lawful channels," she said.