ON the run for almost two months prior to his first arrest, Thamsanqa Xulu (31) of Matshana escaped from police custody last week but was re-arrested on Monday.
Currently detained at the Empangeni SAPS, Xulu was previously held in custody at the Richards Bay Police Station from where he escaped.
Wanted in connection with various cases of house robbery, burglary and theft out of motor vehicles, Xulu has nine cases pending against him in Empangeni apart from several others in Richards Bay.
According to Empangeni SAPS spokesperson, Captain Mbongeni Mdlalose, Xulu was denied bail at his first court appearance at the Empangeni Magistrate’s Court.
‘Among the group of detainees, one was granted bail. Xulu arranged with a connection of his on the outside to pay the bail under the name of the detainee who was granted bail,’ said Mdlalose.
‘When the officer went down to the cells to release the man who was granted bail and called out for him, Xulu stood up and escaped.’
Xulu was subsequently charged with escaping from lawful custody and appeared at the Empangeni Magistrate’s Court on Tuesday.
The case was remanded to 15 August for bail application.
Until then, Xulu remains in custody.
