Police launch manhunt for 2 prison escapees

JOHANNESBURG - A manhunt has been launched after two convicted criminals escaped from Nkandla and Vryheid correctional centres this week.

The first escapee is 34-year-old Siyabonga Sikhakhane who is serving 16 years imprisonment --of which 8 years is suspended, for housebreaking and theft.

He was incarcerated at Nkandla Correctional Centre since last year March.

The second escapee is 29-year-old Siphamandla Gift Simelane, serving two years for a similar offence.

He was admitted to Vryheid Correctional Centre earlier in October.

They are alleged to have escaped while they were out with work teams.

Members of the public are urged to contact the nearest police station should they come into contact with the two escapees.