James Neo Tshwaeli, also known as “Tiger”, allegedly made a daring escape after being rescued from an abandoned mine shaft at the Buffelsfontein gold mine. Despite being under police surveillance, Tshwaeli never reached any police station or hospital.

The four officers arrested are WOs Jack Motlhabya (37), and Menzi Shabalala (38), and Sgts Ntutuko Dladla (40), and Samkelo Mbotho (38) – all part of the Stilfontein Vala Umgodi operation. 

They were arrested on Friday (31/1) and subsequently appeared in the Stilfontein Magistrate’s Court. Each officer was granted bail of R1,000. They face charges of defeating the ends of justice and aiding a prisoner to escape. They will appear in court again on 4 March.

#sapsHQ Police launch manhunt for Stilfontein underground kingpin, a Lesotho national, James Neo Tshoaeli, commonly known as TIGER, who resurfaced from shaft 11 in Stilfontein last week. TIGER is a fugitive of justice and is considered dangerous.

Members of the public are… pic.twitter.com/1Ob0G7CTmG

— SA Police Service ???? (@SAPoliceService) January 20, 2025

Maj. Genl Patrick Asaneng, acting Provincial Commissioner, expressed both relief and disappointment over the arrests, highlighting the importance of accountability within the force.

“We are pleased but at the same time disappointed in the arrest of our own. Let the law take its course. We are still searching for Tiger and believe we will get answers soon from those allegedly responsible for his release from lawful custody,” Asaneng said.

National police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe emphasised that police are committed to use all available resources to locate Tshwaeli. Mathe had stressed that the police officers who assisted Tshwaeli to escape would be held accountable for their actions.

Tshwaeli is alleged to have controlled illegal mining operations at Buffelsfontein and has been accused of being involved in numerous violent acts, including the deaths and assaults of several workers.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi cg