MARIENTAL - The Namibian Police (NamPol) have launched a manhunt following the escape of five awaiting-trial suspects from the Mariental police station holding cells on Friday night.
According to a report issued on Sunday by NamPol's Head of Public Relations, Deputy Commissioner Kauna Shikwambi, the escape occurred between 22:00 and 23:00.
The suspects have been identified as Erick Swartbooi (26), Ivan Wimperth (41), Alloysius Van Der Westhuizen (33), Willem Stanley Fredericks (36), and Peter Afrikaner (35).
Deputy Commissioner Shikwambi revealed that the suspects managed to escape by damaging the steel door of their holding cell and unlocking the burglar door using a self-made key.
The individuals were in custody for serious charges, including theft, housebreaking with intent to steal, assault with grievous bodily harm (GBH), and murder.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the suspects to the nearest police station. Investigations into the incident and efforts to recapture the fugitives are ongoing.