NPA cites escape risk as reason for Sibiya’s detention at Kgosi Mampuru - EWN

The National Prosecuting Authority said it has received intelligence suggesting suspended Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya could try to escape from custody.

Sibiya made his first appearance in the Randburg Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, facing charges related to sexual offences.

He is accused of sexually grooming a minor and raping an 18-year-old woman.

The NPA said intelligence around a possible escape is why Sibiya is being held at the Kgosi Mampuru II Correctional Centre in Pretoria.

Deputy National Police Commissioner Shadrack Sibiya will return to court next week for a formal bail application.

According to the state’s charge sheet, Sibiya allegedly shared explicit pictures with a minor, who is the daughter of an associate.

He is also accused of later raping the 18-year-old friend of the minor.

But following his first court appearance, questions have been raised about why Sibiya is being held at a maximum-security prison.

"There is a possibility that he might escape if he is put in a police station, so he is being held at the Johannesburg Central Correctional Centre," NPA spokesperson Kaizer Kganyago said.