Pertunia Ratsatsi

Pertunia Ratsatsi

Police in Mpumalanga have arrested three of the 13 awaiting-trial prisoners who escaped from holding cells at Siyabuswa police station at the weekend.

Sibusiso Xaba, 25, who is facing a charge of rape, was spotted at a packed tavern in Extension C at about midnight.

Police spokesman Inspector Mpedi Aphane said: "Police received a tip-off that Xaba was drinking alcohol at the tavern. Two police officers were sent to the tavern where Xaba was found sitting with two friends who were armed with guns.

"He instructed his friends to shoot at the police if they tried to arrest him.

As the officers were about to arrest him, one of his friends shot one of the officers in the right arm. Xaba's friends fled the scene after the shooting. Xaba was arrested ."

Kabelo Mmako, 20, who is facing a car theft charge, was caught off guard while also drinking at another tavern in Extension B.

John Masuku, 40, was found at a house - also in extension B. He is behind bars for housebreaking and theft. Aphane warned the public not to confront the 10 men still on the run as they are regarded as dangerous.