Mutale police launch manhunt for unknown gunman following late-night shooting.
Mutale police are investigating a case of murder and attempted murder following a shooting incident in Dzimauli, Tshibvumo, on Saturday night, 24 January 2026.
According to police reports, a 42-year-old man was returning home with his girlfriend at about 22:22 when they allegedly heard gunshots in the street. The couple reportedly encountered an unknown male suspect dressed in dark clothing, who allegedly threatened to kill the man.
The victim reportedly surrendered to the suspect, while his girlfriend managed to flee the scene. The suspect allegedly shot the man in the lower body before fleeing. The injured victim was taken to hospital for medical treatment.
The following morning, at around 06:00, police were alerted to a male body lying in the street. Upon arrival, officers confirmed that a 21-year-old man had sustained gunshot wounds to the upper body and was pronounced dead at the scene by Emergency Medical Services (EMS). His identity has not yet been released and will be disclosed as investigations progress.
The suspect remains unknown and is still at large.
Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information about the suspect or the incident to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Mbengeni Mulalo, on 063 681 4465, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, their nearest police station, or submit information via the MySAPS App.
Police investigations are continuing.
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Manhunt Launched for Escaped Awaiting-Trial Prisoner in Tzaneen.
By Award winning journalist Victor Mukwevho Ne-vumbani.
Police in Tzaneen, under the Mopani District, have launched a manhunt for an awaiting-trial prisoner who escaped from lawful custody at the Tzaneen South African Police Service (SAPS) on Friday, 24 January 2026.
The escape occurred at approximately 11:00 while the suspect was being formally charged inside the police station.
The suspect has been identified as Leonard Letswalo (20), who was arrested a day earlier, on Thursday, 22 January 2026, for the unlawful possession of ammunition. Police allege that Letswalo managed to escape from custody within the police station premises.
Despite immediate tracing operations conducted around the Tzaneen Central Business District (CBD), Ritavi River, and Lephephane Village, the suspect could not be located. He reportedly fled the scene on foot.
At the time of his escape, Letswalo was still handcuffed, with the handcuffs locked to the front.
Police describe the suspect as a short, slender male, approximately 1.58 metres tall, light in complexion, with a beard and a brush-cut hairstyle. He was wearing black shorts, a blue hoodie, and was barefoot when he escaped.
Police have warned members of the public not to approach the suspect, but to immediately report any information that may lead to his arrest.
Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is urged to contact the investigating officer, Sergeant Themba Ngobeni, on 079 298 9609, the Crime Stop number 08600 10111, visit the nearest police station, or submit information through the MySAPS App.
Police investigations into the escape are continuing.
Courtesy of Gwen News Agency.
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