A prison inmate has escaped while receiving medical care at the Mamelodi Hospital in Tswane.

The inmate, Clatter Gumbo, was serving a life sentence for rape, kidnapping, and assault at the Baviaanspoort Correctional Centre in Tswane.

According to the spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services, Singabakho Nxumalo, Clatter was escorted to the hospital for his appointment with the dietician when he attacked the guard official, disarmed him, and escaped from the hospital premises.

“Immediate action has been taken to initiate a thorough investigation into the circumstances surrounding the escape. That investigation will bring to light what else transpired on the day,” said Nxumalo. 

Gumbo was admitted as an offender on August 28, 2018.

“We are appealing to anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the escapee to contact the nearest correctional facility or police station. Crucially, we encourage members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to law enforcement authorities,” concluded Nxumalo.