Arrest of Escaped Mozambican Murderer Highlights Law Enforcement Efforts

Nelson Simiao Massango, a convicted murderer who escaped from Maputo Maximum prison, has been arrested in Sandton, South Africa. Over 1,500 inmates broke free during unrest following the national elections. Authorities are addressing the influx of escaped prisoners and have emphasized that South Africa is not a refuge for criminals.

Law enforcement officials have arrested a convicted Mozambican murderer, Nelson Simiao Massango, who escaped from the Maputo Maximum prison amid the violent unrest following national elections. His arrest occurred at a car rental dealership in Sandton, located north of Johannesburg. Massango was among over 1,500 prisoners who broke free from Maputo Central Prison on Christmas Day last year, utilizing the cover of mass protests that targeted government properties.

Police Chief Bernardino Rafael noted the escape was facilitated by protesters who vandalized government buildings and police vehicles. Police spokesperson Brigadier Athlenda Mathe revealed that Massango had been convicted of murder in 2015 and sentenced to a minimum of 20 years. During his time on the run, he allegedly engaged in motor vehicle theft, renting 4×4 bakkies to smuggle into Mozambique for resale.

In light of this incident, Interpol’s National Central Bureau (NCB) in Pretoria is collaborating with their counterparts in Maputo to address the situation. General Fannie Masemola, the National Commissioner of the South African Police Service (SAPS), commended the Border Policing High Density Team for their efforts in capturing this fugitive, emphasizing that South Africa will not serve as a refuge for criminals.

This is not an isolated incident; in January, two additional Mozambican fugitives related to the massive escape were apprehended in Malelane, Mpumalanga, due to suspicions about their lack of identification documentation. Investigations indicate these individuals may also have escaped from custody in Mozambique recently. The South African Police Service continues to work closely with multiple agencies, including the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco), the Hawks, Crime Intelligence, and Interpol to manage the situation effectively.

In summary, the recent apprehension of Nelson Simiao Massango underscores the ongoing challenges stemming from the mass escape of prisoners in Mozambique. South African authorities remain vigilant and proactive in addressing the influx of escaped convicts, ensuring that their country is not a safe haven for criminal activity. The collaboration among various law enforcement agencies further signifies the commitment to maintaining security and public safety.

Original Source: www.citizen.co.za