MANHUNT FOR ESCAPED RAPIST AND KIDNAPPER

Written by: Selaki Ledwaba

The Department of Correctional Services has confirmed a manhunt for apprehended offender Clatta Gumbo who escaped on Monday, 12 February 2024 from the grounds of Mamelodi Regional Hospital.

According to the Department of Correctional Service, he was escorted to the hospital for a consultation with a Dietician when he attacked the guarding official, disarmed him, and escaped from the hospital premises.

Gumbo, who was admitted on August 28, 2018, is currently serving a life sentence for rape, kidnapping, and assault in Baviaanspoort Correctional Centre in Tshwane.

The spokesperson for the Department of Correctional Services,  Singabakho Nxumalo said that public safety is their utmost priority and every effort is being made to effect a rearrest of Gumbo.

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

The Department of Correctional Services, working with other law enforcement agencies, is conducting a widespread search operation to locate Gumbo.