Inmate Jailed for 10 Years After Bold Escape Attempt

A 29-year-old inmate who was facing robbery charges has been sentenced to an additional 10 years in prison for escaping from lawful custody.

The Harare Magistrates’ Court delivered the sentence to the unnamed inmate, who was being held at Harare Remand Prison. 

The incident unfolded in March 2025 while the inmate, residing at 1622 Glen View 1, Harare, was imprisoned on robbery charges.

By Vongai Masuka 

Investigations revealed that the inmate had conspired with fellow inmates, including one Luke Zvinyengere, whose bail application had been denied. The escape plot involved a prison officer, Donald Madzinga, who allegedly smuggled a revolver into the prison, concealed in a bowl of rice, and delivered it to the inmate’s brother, Tinotenda.

On the day of the planned court appearance, the inmate held the revolver in his palm and waited to be transported to the Harare Magistrates’ Court.

As the prison truck was en route back to Harare Remand Prison along Mother Patrick Road, the inmate made his escape attempt.

During the ensuing pursuit, shots were fired, and the inmate was eventually apprehended after being tripped by a prison officer.

 

The successful prosecution of the escape attempt has resulted in the additional 10-year jail term for the inmate, adding to any sentence he may receive for the initial robbery charges.