10/09/2026
Crime | Rooigrond escapee rearrested in Brits following coordinated search operation
Brits — An escapee convict who broke out of the Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre near Mahikeng on Sunday, 6 September 2026, has been rearrested in Brits following a coordinated search operation involving the South African Police Service (SAPS), correctional services officials and members of the local farming community.
Edward Kgomotso Madiba, who was serving a 20-year sentence for robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping and parole violation, was rearrested on Wednesday, 9 September 2026.
According to police, the breakthrough came after information was received indicating that Madiba had been seen in the vicinity of Legonyane Village in the Bojanala Sub-District.
A coordinated search operation was subsequently activated, bringing together SAPS members, officials from the Department of Correctional Services and local farmers. Teams conducted searches while investigators followed up on intelligence regarding the escapee's movements.
Further information received by the Brits SAPS Detectives indicated that Madiba was moving between the Brits and Damonsville areas.
The intelligence was immediately followed up, leading officers to a licensed liquor restaurant in Brits, where Madiba was located and arrested.
He was subsequently handed over to the Department of Correctional Services and transported back to the Rooigrond facility. He is expected to face an additional charge of escaping from lawful custody.
North West Provincial Commissioner Lieutenant General Arthur Adams commended the law enforcement officers, correctional services officials, farmers and members of the public who assisted in the operation.
“This successful rearrest demonstrates the value of timely intelligence, coordinated operations and strong cooperation between law enforcement agencies, correctional services and communities,” said Adams.
He also thanked members of the public and farming community who provided information that assisted authorities in tracing the escapee.
The successful arrest brings to an end a four-day search for Madiba following his escape from the correctional facility.