Cops launch manhunt for Gauteng's most wanted

Gauteng police have launched a manhunt for six criminals, a spokesperson said on Monday.

Superintendent Eugene Opperman said the men were responsible for a spate of armed robberies in Johannesburg and Pretoria.

“We appeal to the public not to approach the wanted men but to alert the authorities immediately. We are sure there are people out there who know these criminals and where they are taking refuge,” said Opperman.

The men are Amos Mthembu (43), also known as “Maphosa”, Musawenkosi Mtshali, (26) also known as “Bongani Moyo” and Charles Dube Ndumiso (35).

These men escaped from the Johannesburg Central prison on June 1, apparently with the help of corrupt officials. They are wanted for a series of bank robberies, one of which took place at Montecasino earlier this year.

Also wanted is Ernest Magadula (32), who held up a bank in Roodepoort. He escaped from the Boksburg Prison this year and was shot in the leg. Police say he was last seen in Alexandra and that he may have since lost the leg.

Lindizwe Mkize (34) and alleged cash-in-transit robber Isaac Mnguni (39) are also wanted.

“These men are part of a group of criminals on the list of the province’s most wanted,” said Opperman.

“We have a provincial task team on stand-by and they will act on the information immediately as it comes in. The public is our eyes and ears and we need to mobilise to get these bad guys off the streets.”

Members of the public with information can contact Crime Stop on 08600-10111 or send an SMS to 32211 or report it at www.crimeline.co.za. - Sapa