By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
Department of Correctional Services (DCS) confirmed that the Rooigrond escapee Edward Kgomotso Madiba has been rearrested in Brits and is currently being held at Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Tshwane.
Madiba was recaptured within a strict 72-hour operational window after escaping from the Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre near Mahikeng.
DCS National Commissioner Makgothi Thobakgale made the announcement about Madiba’s apprehension during a media briefing on Thursday, 10 September 2026.
Madiba escaped from the facility while he was being detained in the single cells on a further charge relating to a previous escape.
He is serving a 20-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping, and parole violation.
“I can confirm that the escapee was apprehended within 72 hours, reaffirming the department’s commitment that offenders who escape from lawful custody will be traced, apprehended and returned to the correctional system.
“We will not relent in pursuing those who attempt to undermine the integrity of our correctional system, “Thobakgale said.
The National Commissioner explained that Madiba moved through a “number of locations…including the Borakalalo Game Reserve, Lebotloane and Damonsville, before eventually moving to Brits, where he was apprehended at a flat”.
“Our tracing capabilities, supported by technology and cooperation with other law enforcement partners, played an important role in narrowing the search and tracking his movements.”
“This outcome demonstrates that the department is not passive when an offender escapes. We activate our capabilities, mobilise our resources and pursue the offender until that person is back in custody.”
“Let me therefore send a clear message to anyone who may be contemplating an escape from a correctional facility: there is nowhere to run and nowhere to hide,” he warned.
Thobakgale emphasised that Madiba’s apprehension will not curb any internal investigation into the circumstances leading to the escape.
At least eight officials have already been suspended pending the conclusion of internal processes.
“Where wrongdoing, negligence or failure to comply with prescribed procedures is established, appropriate action will be taken.”
“We will allow the investigation to take its course, guided by facts and due process.”
Portfolio Committee on Correctional Services chairperson Kgomotso Ramolobeng said that they are shocked by the nature of Madiba’s escape.
She said that they hope investigations will leave no stone unturned.
Thobakgale also said there are over 170 officials going through disciplinary processes for offences including compromising security and contraband violations.
This follows an intensified nationwide crackdown and recent intelligence-led raids at correctional services facilities.
The operations are part of a broader strategy to root out internal corruption, eradicate illicit merchandising by inmates, and hold complicit staff members legally accountable.