34-year-old Tumelo Raledi escaped from police custody in
Police in Namakgale has launched an intensive manhunt after 34-year-old suspect Tumelo Raledi escaped from lawful custody on Sunday, 26 April 2026.
He reportedly fled at about 21:30 while admitted for medical treatment at Maphuta Malatji Hospital in the Mopani District, where he was being guarded by police officers.
Raledi is regarded as dangerous and had been arrested in connection with a series of serious violent crimes in the Namakgale policing area.
The charges against him include rape, attempted murder and two counts of murder allegedly committed between 2023 and 2025.
Limpopo Provincial Police Commissioner Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe condemned the escape and said every available resource is being deployed to track him down and ensure he is rearrested as quickly as possible.
Police have urged members of the public not to approach the suspect, but to immediately report any sightings or information to authorities. Investigations into both the escape and the ongoing case are continuing.
