Dramatic Court Escape: Suspect Re-arrested After Armed Flight

Luke Zinyengere, an armed robbery suspect, was re-arrested in Harare after escaping from court with the aid of a prison officer who provided a firearm. Zinyengere now faces multiple charges, including illegal possession of a firearm and carjacking. The officer involved has been charged with facilitating the escape of inmates, showcasing serious security breaches within the judicial system.

On Monday, police re-arrested Luke Zinyengere, a 29-year-old armed robbery suspect, who had escaped from court the previous Friday. His escape involved a prison officer allegedly supplying him with a gun, which Zinyengere used to fire at prison guards during his flight from justice.

Following his capture in Harare, Zinyengere was charged not only for robbery but also for illegal possession of a firearm, unlawful escape from custody, and carjacking, after he fled in a Mazda Demio. Zinyengere was initially facing trial for two armed robbery incidents, including a theft of $720,000 from Quest Financial Services.

The facilitating prison officer, Donald Madzinga, aged 39, has since been charged with helping two inmates escape. Another inmate, Richard Marondera, was re-arrested shortly after Zinyengere’s escape attempt. Evidence suggests that Madzinga conspired with the inmates, accepting payment to procure a revolver for them, which was delivered by a third party.

During their court appearance on March 21, 2025, Zinyengere and Marondera hid the firearm in their clothing. The escape ensued as they tried to flee while being escorted back to Harare Remand Prison. The situation escalated when Zinyengere used the firearm to create a diversion, hijacking a vehicle to escape the prison staff. Madzinga is scheduled for a bail hearing on Tuesday before magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa.

Zinyengere’s re-arrest highlights significant lapses in prison security and the involvement of staff in facilitating escapes. With new charges against him, the ongoing investigation must address the broader issues of prison integrity and staff accountability. Meanwhile, Madzinga’s actions will be scrutinized to prevent future incidents and ensure the safety of judicial proceedings.

Original Source: www.zimlive.com