Fugitive shot in chest after month-long manhunt in Cape Town

THE man who escaped from the Strand Magistrate’s Court a month ago has been rearrested and is under police guard in hospital after he was allegedly shot when he threatened an officer with a knife.

Denver Pietersen, 34, who is facing attempted murder charges, escaped from the holding cells on October 27 along with two other fugitives.

With him was Glenville Jantjies, 22, who is also charged with attempted murder, and 25-year-old Rastum Alfestus, who faces charges of assault with intent to cause grievous bodily harm.

Alfestus was successfully apprehended at a residence in Strand the following day while Jantjies handed himself over on October 31 after a manhunt was launched.

Pietersen was finally apprehended in the Strand informal settlement of Morkel Cottage. 

Police spokesperson Captain FC van Wyk said: “Be advised that the 34-year-old suspect was arrested on Tuesday, November 25 at 2.35pm at Morkel Cottage, Strand. He is currently under police guard at a nearby hospital for treatment.

“The case is investigated by The Investigative Police Directorate (Ipid).”

Ipid spokesperson Phaladi Shuping said it is alleged that police spotted Pietersen before he fled and ran into a shack.

"The suspect allegedly ran into a shack, and came out with a knife. He allegedly wanted to stab the SAPS member with a knife, and the member allegedly shot (the) suspect (in the) chest," Shuping said.

Cape Times