Limpopo Fugitive Recaptured After Brutal Mob Attack; Police Urge Against Vigilante Justice

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Fhimani Azwinndini, a 28-year-old escapee from a Limpopo hospital, is recovering at Tshilidzini Hospital after allegedly fleeing from police custody while receiving medical treatment. Azwinndini had been under heavy security, with leg irons on, when he managed to escape from the hospital window on Tuesday night, sparking a manhunt by local authorities.

The escapee was facing serious charges, including kidnapping and murder. Provincial police spokesperson Lieutenant Colonel Stephen Thakeng confirmed that after his escape, a case of escape from lawful custody was immediately filed, and investigators worked tirelessly to follow up on every lead that came in.

By Saturday, the search for Azwinndini had taken an unexpected turn when the residents of Ha Mphego village provided a crucial tip. They informed the police that the escapee had been found, but, unfortunately, he had already been severely assaulted by the local community members. The mob attack left Azwinndini seriously injured, unable to speak, and in need of urgent medical attention.

As a result, a case of attempted murder was registered, and the suspect was once again admitted to hospital, this time under police guard. Despite his critical condition, police indicated that he would soon face charges in the local magistrate’s court.

Limpopo’s Provincial Police Commissioner, Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, thanked the community for their help in locating Azwinndini but also issued a stern warning against vigilante justice. Hadebe cautioned that while the community’s involvement was appreciated, taking the law into one’s own hands is a criminal act and punishable by law.

The situation highlights the ongoing tensions between law enforcement and communities, where frustrations over crime sometimes lead to incidents of mob justice. While the police are working to ensure the proper legal processes are followed, they remain committed to bringing Azwinndini to justice for the serious charges he faces.