A convicted murderer was mistakenly released while appearing at the Wynberg Magistrate’s Court for another matter.
Phelo Mtala was convicted of three counts of murder, assault with grievous bodily harm and illegal possession of a firearm and ammunition.
He was expected to appear at the Western Cape High Court today for pre-sentencing reports and sentencing proceedings.
Police spokesperson FC Van Wyk confirmed Mtala escaped on May 20 and was at large.
“Members noticed that the mentioned suspect, who was brought from Pollsmoor Maximum, was nowhere to be found. The prisoner was supposed to appear in court and then return to Pollsmoor. Police are in pursuit of the suspect and the investigation continues,” he said.
A source told the Cape Argus that Mtala was appearing for an attempted murder case. The source said he feared for witnesses involved in the case now that the accused was at large.
Provincial commissioner for
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