James Neo Tshwaeli, also known as “Tiger,” reportedly escaped from custody after being rescued from an abandoned mine shaft at the Buffelsfontein gold mine. He remains the subject of a manhunt, with authorities continuing to search for him.

According to police, despite being under surveillance, Tiger has not been spotted at any police station or hospital, and there is no conclusive evidence supporting the claims of his death. This comes after several rumors began circulating that “Tiger” had been killed, but the police have dismissed these as unsubstantiated.

Tshwaeli’s escape from custody has raised significant concerns, leading to the arrest of four police officers who were allegedly involved in his disappearance. The officers, Jack Motlhabya (37), Menzi Shabalala (38), Ntuthuko Dladla (40), and Samkelo Mbotho (38) were charged with defeating the ends of justice, aiding and abetting a detainee to escape.

They appeared in court on Wednesday (5/6) at the Stilfontein Magistrate Court, where their case was postponed to 29 May 2025 for further investigation. Each of the officers was granted bail of R1,000.

During the release of the 2024/2025 provincial 3rd Quarter Crime Statistics yesterday, Acting Provincial Commissioner, Major General Patrick Asaneng, addressed the growing rumors surrounding Tshwaeli’s alleged death. 

‘We do not chase after ghosts in our investigations’

He categorically stated that no evidence had been presented to substantiate the claims of “Tiger” being dead. He said that the police are focusing on solid, verifiable evidence, not chasing speculative theories.

“As I previously mentioned, we do not chase after ghosts in our investigations,” said Maj. Gen. Asaneng. 

“We collect and collate evidence that can be presented before the court. We are not operating on unverified claims. As of now, no one has come forward to confirm who may have killed ‘Tiger.’”

Maj. Gen. Asaneng also stated that the arrested police officers were charged due to their involvement in the escape. He said their investigations revealed that when Tshwaeli was handed over to the officers, they failed to process him at the police station properly and afterward failed to provide satisfactory explanations as to how he managed to disappear from their hands.

Maj. Gen. Asaneng assured the public that the matter is close to being resolved. However, he refrained from sharing further details, as investigations are ongoing. 

He further said the police’s efforts to combat illegal mining in the country continue, with Operation “Vala Umgodi” still active in efforts to curb the illegal mining activities in the region.

OFM News/Kekeletso Mosebetsi mvh