Escapees Lauititi Tualima and Anesiko Vaelei were caught by the police from two different locations on Monday, ending their four-day spree.

Both prisoners who are considered to be notorious and dangerous escaped on Thursday evening. This was Tualima’s second escape this year.

Police Commissioner Auapaau Logotino Filipo confirmed that Vaelei was captured in Vaiusu while Tualima was near the Orator Hotel.

“In Anesiko’s case, we knew he had family in Vaiusu, and we reached out to them. They helped in getting him back to use,” he said.

“Through Anesiko’s help, we were able to get more information on where Lauititi could be. Lautiti had formed a relationship with a former female prisoner, and he was located where she was.

“All in all, the independence celebration has ended well with no major incidents and the two escaped prisoners were not involved in any further criminal activities.”

The two were captured by a police team and taken to the Faleata Police Station and were later transferred to the head office in Apia for questioning and further charges.

A report by the Professional Standards Unit is likely to be ready by Tuesday. The report shows the outcome of an investigation into the escape by the two prisoners on Thursday night.

Auapaau said a thorough check of the prison was also done, and the operation of the facility was further boosted by deploying more officers to Tanumala.

“All surveillance cameras are now in operation, and we will await the report on how the two managed to escape. If there was involvement from staff, they will be taken to task. This is a very serious matter,” he said.

Five corrections officers were suspended after Tualima’s escape in March.

Tualima is serving more than 20 years in prison for rape, robbery and other violent crimes. In 2015, Tualima's escape and the rape of an Australian tourist, while on the run, garnered international attention.

Vaelei is serving time for violent robberies. He also committed violent crimes when he also escaped prison a few years ago.