Tinotenda Hove

A dramatic incident unfolded on 21st March 2025 at the Harare Magistrate Court, where a man, identified as Luke Zinyengere, engaged in a shootout with prison officers before escaping from lawful custody.

Zinyengere, who is 29 years old, allegedly used a pistol to rob a vehicle — a Mazda Demio — as part of his daring escape.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a press statement confirming the incident and appealing for the public’s assistance in locating the fugitive. According to the ZRP, “Investigations are being conducted in connection with the escape from lawful custody and the alleged armed robbery incident at the Harare Magistrate Court.”

The dramatic chain of events saw Zinyengere overpowering security and making a run for it after engaging in a shootout with prison officers. In a desperate bid for freedom, he allegedly stole a Mazda Demio vehicle to aid his escape. Fortunately, no officers were reported injured during the exchange of gunfire.

The ZRP’s statement also emphasized their commitment to resolving the case, stating, “The Police assures the public that comprehensive investigations are underway to establish what actually happened in this incident.” They also appealed for any information that might lead to the arrest of Zinyengere.

The suspect is now a wanted man, and the ZRP has urged anyone with knowledge of his whereabouts to come forward. “More details will be released in due course,” the statement concluded.

The police have vowed to intensify efforts to track down Zinyengere, who is considered armed and dangerous. Authorities are calling on the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could help bring him to justice.

This unsettling event has raised concerns over the security measures at the court, prompting further scrutiny of prison protocols and the safety of law enforcement officers involved in such high-risk operations.