DCS and SAPS investigating fraudulent release of French national, LaCote, wanted by Interpol

Correctional Services and the South African Police Service (SAPS) are investigating a fraudulent release of a French national – Jean Claude Lacote – who was awaiting trial for fraud at the Johannesburg Management Area.

It is alleged that two bogus policemen had brought a fake warrant of release to secure Jean Claude Lacote's freedom from the awaiting trial Correctional Centre A of Johannesburg Management Area.

A joint team of the SAPS and Correctional Services is currently investigating the matter, starting with video footage to get the identities of the bogus police men and women and officials that may have collaborated with the fraudsters to destroy the copied identities and the fake warrant of release.

The inmate – Jean Claude Lacote – is wanted by Interpol for fraud involving over $3,2 million as well as a R36 million fraud cases in South Africa. An identikit of the suspect is attached while identikits of the suspected bogus police officers will be circulated in due course appealing to the public to assist in the re-arrest of the inmate and the detention of the fraudsters responsible for his escape from lawful custody. Further details about the case will be published at an appropriate time, as the case is currently at a critical and sensitive stage.

The Department of Correctional Services has also launched an internal investigation in order to deal with officials that may have colluded with the fraudsters accordingly.