POLICE HUNT FOR OFFICER WHO FLED CUSTODY AFTER STOCK THEFT ARREST

By Everisto Zhuwao

A Zimbabwe Republic Police officer is currently on the run after escaping from his colleagues while being transported to face stock theft charges.

Constable Clifford Sibanda, who was stationed at Insuza, vanished into the darkness on the night of March 14 along Victoria Falls Road. The fugitive officer had been arrested in connection with the theft of 17 cattle which were discovered at a homestead in the Mamboweni area.

The livestock had been reported missing in the Insuza District before being tracked to the property of a local villager identified as Midi Mpofu. Investigations suggest the cattle were being prepared for transport to an unknown destination before local residents intervened and alerted authorities.

Following the discovery, Sibanda was apprehended by a group of villagers in Esigodini and subsequently handed over to Insuza Police Station.

The escape occurred while Sibanda was being transferred from Insuza Police Station to Lupane Police Station to facilitate further legal processes. During the journey, the suspect requested a brief stop to relieve himself at the side of the road.

Seizing the opportunity, he bolted from the vehicle and disappeared into the surrounding bushes. Despite an immediate search by the escorting officers, he could not be located.

Authorities have since launched a massive manhunt to bring the officer back into custody. Police have appealed to members of the public who may have information regarding his whereabouts to come forward.