Proceedings at the Harare Magistrates Court were brought to a standstill on Tuesday after an inmate stabbed a Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer before attempting a dramatic escape from the premises.
The suspect allegedly attacked the prison officer, disarmed him, forced him to undress and seized his uniform, which he used as a disguise before fleeing the court building.
Authorities immediately launched a manhunt for the suspect, identified as Itai Madhongo, a convicted serial rapist currently serving a 45-year sentence for rape and armed robbery.
Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services support teams were swiftly deployed to assist in the search, leading to the suspect’s apprehension.
The court’s main entrance was temporarily closed, with a heavy security presence.
