Awaiting-trial prisoner escapes from Tzaneen Police custody

Police in Tzaneen, Limpopo, have launched a manhunt following the escape of an awaiting-trial prisoner from lawful custody at the Tzaneen South African Police Services (SAPS) on Friday, 23 January 2026, at approximately 11:00.

The suspect, identified as 20-year-old Leonard Letswalo, was arrested on Thursday, 222 January 2026, for unlawful possession of ammunition. He allegedly escaped while being charged within the police station premises. 

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The suspect allegedly escaped while being charged within the police station premises.  He fled on foot and could not be located despite immediate tracing efforts conducted around the Tzaneen CBD, Ritavi River and Lephephane Village.

At the time of his escape, the suspect was handcuffed with handcuffs locked to the front. 

The suspect is described as a short slender male, approximately 1.58 meters tall, light in complexion, with a beard and a brush-cut haristlye. He was wearing a black short, a blue hoodie, and was barefoot when he escaped. 

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Police are appealing to members of the public not to approach the suspect but to immediately report any information regarding his whereabouts to the nearest police station.