Convicted Rapist and Murderer Rearrested After Prison Escape, Faces New Charges

A convicted murderer and rapist who escaped from custody last month has been rearrested in Gauteng, the Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed on Tuesday.

Thulani Gcaleka, who was serving a life sentence, was apprehended in the early hours of the morning following a coordinated manhunt led by a specialised tracking team.

Special Task Team Leads Manhunt Success

The DCS said the rearrest was the result of intensified efforts by a dedicated Track and Tracing Team, established by National Commissioner Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale to focus on high-risk escapees.

"The rearrest of offender Gcaleka is a direct result of these strengthened efforts," the department said.

The unit works alongside regional teams to ensure a rapid and coordinated response to prison escape incidents.

Escape from KwaZulu-Natal Facility

Gcaleka escaped from the Sevontein Correctional Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, under the Pietermaritzburg Management Area.

Officials said he fled custody while:

• Assigned to a cleaning work team

• Carrying out duties at a prison farm

The escape triggered a nationwide search due to the seriousness of his crimes.

Serving Life Sentence for Multiple Violent Crimes

At the time of his escape, Gcaleka was serving a life sentence for a range of serious offences, including:

• Rape

• Attempted rape

• Attempted murder

• Common robbery

• Housebreaking with intent to commit an offence

Authorities warned that his escape posed a significant threat to public safety.

Additional Charges and Maximum-Security Transfer

Following his rearrest, Gcaleka will:

• Face additional criminal charges for escaping lawful custody

• Be reclassified to a higher security category

• Be transferred to a maximum-security correctional facility

The DCS reiterated its zero-tolerance stance on prison escapes.

"Escapees pose a significant risk to public safety, and the department remains resolute in ensuring that all those who evade custody are swiftly traced and returned," it said.

Internal Investigation and Disciplinary Action

The department confirmed that:

• An internal investigation into the escape is ongoing

• Disciplinary processes are underway

Officials are examining whether:

• Negligence occurred

• Any staff members were complicit

Appropriate action will be taken against those found responsible.

Crackdown on High-Risk Escapees

The swift rearrest highlights the government's усили усили to strengthen prison security and response mechanisms.

With specialised tracking teams now in place, authorities say they are committed to ensuring that high-risk offenders cannot evade justice and that accountability is enforced both inside and outside correctional facilities.