Limpopo Police Launch Intensive Tactical Manhunt for High Risk Fugitive Tumelo Raledi Following Hospital Escape

South African police launch urgent manhunt for Tumelo Raledi, a high risk suspect facing murder charges who escaped from a hospital in Limpopo.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 28, 2026, 2:51 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from IOL

A Brazen Escape Under Armed Guard

The South African Police Service in Limpopo is currently conducting an expansive search operation following the escape of a high risk suspect from official custody on Sunday evening. Tumelo Raledi, aged 34, managed to flee the Maphuta Malatji Hospital in the Mopani District at approximately 9:30pm. At the time of his disappearance, Raledi was receiving medical treatment while supposedly under the watch of police guards. The circumstances allowing the suspect to evade his captors are currently under investigation by provincial authorities.

A Record of Serious Violent Offenses

Raledi is not a minor offender, but a man linked to a series of brutal incidents that have occurred over the past three years. According to Brigadier Hlulani Mashaba, the provincial police spokesperson, the fugitive was being held in connection with multiple serious violent crimes. These charges include rape, attempted murder, and two distinct counts of murder. The alleged crimes took place between 2023 and 2025 within the Namakgale policing area, marking Raledi as a significant threat to community safety.

Provincial Leadership Demands Immediate Accountability

The escape has drawn a sharp rebuke from the highest levels of law enforcement in the province. Lieutenant General Thembi Hadebe, the Limpopo Police Commissioner, has publicly condemned the incident and ordered an immediate administrative and tactical response. Hadebe has assured the citizens of Limpopo that the SAPS is mobilizing every available resource to ensure Raledi is rearrested. This administrative review is expected to scrutinize the conduct of the guards assigned to the suspect at the time of the breach.