Over 160 Prisoners Escaped in Eastern Cape Over Three Years

Over 160 Prisoners Escaped Police Custody in Eastern Cape Over Three Years

More than 160 prisoners have escaped from police custody in the Eastern Cape over the past three financial years, with an additional 30 escapes already recorded in the current year. These figures highlight serious weaknesses in supervision, compliance, and consequence management within the provincial policing system.

Accused criminals walking free are leaving families anxious, undermining public confidence in the South African Police Service (SAPS), and forcing victims to relive traumatic experiences. Honest police officers are also being affected, with weak oversight and poor accountability eroding morale and public trust.

Sharp Rise in Prison Escapes

In response to a parliamentary question, Community Safety MEC Xolile Nqatha confirmed that:

• 2022/23: 43 prisoners escaped (22 remained at large)

• 2023/24: 58 prisoners escaped (26 remained at large)

• 2024/25: 36 prisoners escaped (17 remained at large)

• 2025/26: 30 prisoners have already escaped (17 remain at large)

Despite some rearrests, a worrying number of escapees remain free, highlighting ongoing systemic failures. The Department admits that these escapes are often linked to wrongful releases, transportation failures, and official negligence.

Infrastructure and Oversight Challenges

The problem is worsened by the poor condition of police holding facilities. An oversight report debated last week confirmed that many stations cannot use their holding cells because they are unsafe or unfit for purpose. This forces detainees to be transported to other stations, increasing costs and escape risks.

• Thornhill: No holding cells available.

• KwaBhaca: Cells are unusable due to dilapidated infrastructure.

The Legislature has formally recommended that SAPS assist stations urgently in establishing proper, secure holding cells to prevent further incidents.

DA Calls for Immediate Action

The Democratic Alliance (DA) has announced plans to write to MEC Nqatha, demanding urgent intervention and a clear accountability plan. The DA’s demands include:

• Immediate reporting on disciplinary outcomes

• Stricter compliance enforcement at station level

• Decisive action against negligence by officials

“The people of the Eastern Cape deserve to feel safe in their homes and confident that those arrested will remain in custody,” said Yusuf Cassim, DA Shadow MEC for Community Safety.

The DA remains committed to holding the provincial government accountable and building a community safety system rooted in professionalism, responsibility, and respect for the rule of law.

“Eastern Cape residents deserve leadership that delivers a future built on dignity, security, and honest governance,” Cassim added.