Probe underway into repatriation centre escape

JOHANNESBURG - A manhunt and investigation in underway into the escape of 69 detainees from the Lindela Repatriation Centre.

The future of management company Environmongz's contract is in doubt.

Home Affairs is slamming the company and has taken over security.

The escapees are believed to have fled during a fight between two detainees and security guards on Sunday.

There was also another attempted escape on Monday, which was brought under control.

Home Affairs says EnvironMongz could have prevented the breaches.

Police have also arrested two guards after one detainee died of his injuries.

Meanwhile, deportations to Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Eswatini and Zimbabwe will continue.