INMATE ESCAPES FROM HARARE CENTRAL PRISON WITH VEHICLE

By Varaidzo Matope

An inmate escaped from Harare Central Prison after driving away in a motor vehicle he was repairing at the prison workshops, the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) has confirmed.

The incident occurred at the Harare Central Prison Workshops, where the inmate was attached under a motor mechanics vocational training programme. The initiative forms part of ZPCS rehabilitation efforts aimed at equipping offenders with practical skills to support their reintegration into society.

ZPCS said investigations are currently underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the escape, and the matter has since been reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police for further action.

While acknowledging the incident as regrettable, ZPCS stressed that such cases are rare and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining a secure correctional environment while continuing rehabilitation programmes. The service added that security measures are being strengthened to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Members of the public have been urged to remain vigilant and to avoid approaching the escapee if sighted. Anyone with information that may assist in his recapture is advised to immediately contact the nearest police station or ZPCS on 0242 706501 or 0242 762724.

Authorities say efforts to locate and apprehend the inmate are ongoing as they work to safeguard public safety.