Major general calls kingpin’s escape a humiliation for police
Police officials face mounting pressure as the Acting Provincial Commissioner demands an explanation for the fugitive’s escape.
“Heads will roll!”
This is the province from Acting Provincial Commissioner Major General Patrick Asaneng hours after a notorious illegal mining kingpin in Stilfontein escaped police custody under suspicious circumstances, thought to be corrupt dealings.
A dramatic police manhunt has since been initiative in the North West, as police scramble to find the fugitive.
POLICE CONFIRM CASES OF ASSAULT AND TORTURE
Known by his alias “Tiger,” James Neo Tshoaeli is a Lesotho national accused of running underground operations and committing serious crimes, including assault and torture.
Major General Asaneng confirmed the Tshoaeli’s escape, labelling it an embarrassment to Operation Vala Umgodi, a police initiative launched to combat illegal mining. “
Investigations have also revealed that Tiger was never formally booked into custody after resurfacing from Shaft 11 last week.
The major general confirmed that authorities were probing allegations that corrupt officials assisted in Tiger’s escape.
Major General Asaneng vowed to hold those responsible accountable. “We are mobilising maximum resources to track him down and ensure justice is served,” he stated.
BRUTAL ALLEGATIONS SURFACE
Tiger has been implicated in shocking testimonies from illegal miners who accuse him of hoarding food, assaulting miners, and orchestrating violence underground.
Videos obtained by police reportedly confirm these claims. Some miners have blamed Tiger for deaths that occurred during illegal mining operations.
The Portfolio Committee on Community Safety, led by Hon. Freddy Sonakile, has also expressed alarm over Tiger’s escape, suggesting potential agreements between police and mining syndicates. “This raises serious doubts about the integrity of intelligence operations,” said Sonakile.
The committee criticised the escape as a setback in the fight against illegal mining, which has plagued the Stilfontein area.
Sonakile confirmed plans for further oversight visits and joint investigations involving other government departments.
PUBLIC URGED TO ASSIST
Police have labelled Tiger a fugitive and warned that he is extremely dangerous. Authorities are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to contact Stilfontein police.
Brigadier Athlenda Mathe, the police spokesperson, has assured the public that no stone will be left unturned. “This incident will not derail the progress made in tackling illegal mining in the province,” Mathe said.