A Prison officer in Harare, Zimbabwe, has been detained after claims surfaced that he provided a gun to a prisoner, facilitating the prisoner’s bold and violent breakout from custody.
The prisoner, 29-year-old Luke Zinyengere, was facing trial for his part in a prominent armed theft at Quest Financial Services in February 2024, during which more than $700,000 was taken. On March 21, Zinyengere succeeded in escaping his restraints at the Harare Magistrates Court following a fierce gunfight with prison guards, after which he commandeered a Mazda Demio to escape the area.
The correctional officer, Donald Madzinga, is set to appear before a judge today, Monday, March 24, 2025, charged with assisting in the prisoner’s getaway. Police sources verified that Madzinga is alleged to have supplied Zinyengere with the firearm used in the breakout.
Zinyengere had been pending sentencing for his involvement in the robbery, which stunned the country due to the brazen nature of the offense and the significant amount of cash stolen. On February 25, 2024, a band of armed robbers, including Zinyengere, burst into the Quest Financial Services building, making off with over $700,000. Zinyengere and multiple other suspects were apprehended in relation to the crime.
The heist ranked among the most substantial in Harare’s recent past. Two security personnel at Quest Financial Services were also found complicit in the incident for not reporting money dropped by the thieves during their getaway. They received a 48-month prison term.
After the theatrical escape, officials have initiated a widespread search to apprehend Zinyengere. The breakout has sparked grave concerns regarding safety procedures at the Harare Magistrates Court and the prison system as a whole. Law enforcement authorities have encouraged citizens to stay alert and notify them of any sightings of Zinyengere or the stolen Mazda Demio. The event has triggered extensive media attention and public fury, with numerous voices demanding tougher security protocols to avert similar occurrences moving forward.
A Gentle Reminder: Every obstacle is a stepping stone, every morning; a chance to go again, and those little steps take you closer to your dream.
Nnamdi Okoli