Escaped Mozambican Murderer Nelson Massango Arrested in Sandton
A convicted Mozambican murderer, Nelson Massango, who escaped during the December 2023 unrest at Maputo’s maximum-security prison, has been arrested in Sandton on suspicion of car theft.
Massango, who was serving a 15-year sentence for a 2015 murder, was one of 500 inmates who broke out of custody during the Mozambican prison break.
🔹 Car Theft Syndicate in Gauteng
South African police arrested Massango at a car dealership in Sandton, where he was allegedly linked to a vehicle theft operation.
According to SAPS spokesperson Brig Athlenda Mathe, Massango was involved in stealing and smuggling 4×4 bakkies to Mozambique, where they were illegally sold.
🔹 Interpol & SAPS Investigating
Authorities, including Interpol and SAPS border policing, are working closely with Mozambican law enforcement to ensure fugitives from the prison break are captured.
“The SAPS border policing team has been working tirelessly to track and apprehend those who fled into the country,” Mathe stated.
🔹 Awaiting Extradition
Massango now faces charges in both South Africa and Mozambique, with authorities expected to arrange his extradition soon.