The five recaptured prisoners who escaped from the Kutama Sinthumule Correctional Centre (KSCC) last week, appeared in the Louis Trichardt District Court on Tuesday under a heavy police presence.
They were Chris Faku (37), Jabulani Isaac Mahlangu (31), Thomas Munyai (29), Tshengedzeni Manuka (37) and Justice Makamo (27). According to reports received, they escaped with other prisoners on Thursday night (26th) after a riot inside the prison. Things allegedly got out of hand during a protest about a wage dispute of the wardens.
All five were charged with escaping from lawful custody. They were not asked to plead, and their case was postponed to afford them the chance to apply for a Legal Aid attorney.
In the same court, two more suspects appeared who are suspected of assisting some of the escapees by hiding them from the police.
Phathutshedzo Funky Mugwena (20) and Netshiluwani Tshifhiwa Alycate (32) appeared on single counts of defeating the ends of justice and the possession of stolen property.
Four of the escapees were allegedly discovered and arrested on a property that the two are renting out. They are also accused of giving the escapees civilian clothing to change into.
They were also not asked to plead but were released after they paid bail in the amount of R1 000. Their case was postponed until 23 November.