Escape from Pretoria

Tim Jenkin and Stephen Lee become politically active during their college years when they are exposed to the harsh realities of apartheid. They align themselves with the ANC, advocating for a democratic South Africa and opposing racial discrimination.

Jenkin and Lee are arrested for distributing pamphlets that support banned organizations, which the government views as a threat to national security. Their actions are intended to inspire change but ultimately lead them to face serious legal repercussions.

Tim Jenkin is sentenced to 12 years, while Stephen Lee receives an 8-year sentence. Their harsh punishments reflect the oppressive nature of the apartheid regime, aiming to serve as a warning to other potential dissenters.

The two prisoners are transferred to the infamous Pretoria Central Prison. Here, they encounter Denis Goldberg, a seasoned political prisoner who advises them against attempting an escape due to the prison's formidable security.

Despite initial discouragement, Jenkin and Lee begin to secretly devise their escape plan. They smartly smuggle in money concealed within a cigar capsule to facilitate their efforts, showcasing their creativity and determination.

After days of observation and planning, Jenkin manages to craft a working key after 74 days in prison. This innovation stems from his cleverness and understanding of the prison's locking mechanisms.

Captain Schnepel disrupts a visit for fellow inmate Leonard Fontaine, raising alarms about their escape plans. The interference causes mounting tension among the escapees as they realize their time is running out.

Realizing the need for increased manpower, Jenkin and Lee begin to recruit more prisoners to assist with their escape. This bold move enhances their chances of success but also complicates their planning.

The trio diligently works on testing their escape tools and strategies under the cover of night. This careful preparation is critical as they navigate through the risks of being caught at any moment.

After nearly a year of planning and facing numerous challenges, Jenkin, Lee, and Leonard successfully break through the last door separating them from freedom. Their excitement is palpable as they slip past the guards and into the streets of Pretoria.

Their escape triggers a massive manhunt by the South African government, showcasing the seriousness of their actions and the lengths to which authorities will go to recapture them. The stakes are high as they flee the scene between countries.

Jenkin and Lee eventually make it to London, where they find temporary safety as fugitives. Their bold escape and survival are celebrated but fraught with the anxiety of being caught and returned to prison.

Denis Goldberg finds his own freedom in 1985 after serving 22 years in prison. His release signifies a glimmer of hope for political prisoners during a tumultuous time in South Africa's history.

Jenkin and Lee receive their pardon in 1991, marking the end of their life on the run. This development coincides with significant political changes in South Africa, indicating a shift towards democracy.

The political landscape of South Africa transforms when Nelson Mandela is elected president in 1994. His presidency symbolizes a new era for the nation, representing the culmination of the anti-apartheid movement.