Edward Madiba has been rearrested about 72 hours after escaping from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre in North West.
According to TimesLIVE, the Department of Correctional Services announced his rearrest on Thursday at Kgosi Mampuru Prison, where he is currently being held.
Madiba escaped from Rooigrond prison on Sunday after allegedly cutting through the bars of his single cell.
Eight officials remain suspended
Correctional Services Commissioner Makgothi Samuel Thobakgale confirmed that Madiba had been apprehended and returned to custody.
Thobakgale also confirmed that eight officials from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre near Mahikeng remain suspended pending an investigation into the escape.
Correctional Services spokesperson Singabakho Nxumalo said preliminary information indicated that Madiba had cut through the door of his single cell.
The department has not yet announced the outcome of the investigation.
Madiba serving 20-year sentence
Madiba was serving a 20-year prison sentence when he escaped.
His convictions include robbery with aggravating circumstances, possession of a firearm and ammunition, kidnapping and violating parole.
His rearrest brings his time on the run to about 72 hours.
According to TimesLIVE, Madiba is now being kept at Kgosi Mampuru Prison while authorities continue investigating how he managed to escape from Rooigrond Maximum Correctional Centre.