More charges for suicidal rape convict

A 38-year-old man who attempted to escape from lawful custody by jumping from the third floor of the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court moments after being sentenced to 15 years in prison for attempted rape is now facing additional charges.

Monwabisi Mhilwane, who survived the fall in an apparent suicide attempt on Wednesday afternoon, has been charged with escaping from lawful custody and negligently causing serious bodily harm.

After receiving initial medical attention at the court premises, Mhilwane was transferred to Mpilo Central Hospital under the guard of Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) officers.

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele confirmed the incident and outlined the circumstances leading to the new charges.

“The accused is Monwabisi Mhilwane. On 25 June 2025, at around 16:20 hours at the Tredgold Magistrates’ Court building, corner Leopold Takawira Avenue and Herbert Chitepo Street, prisoners were exiting the courtroom in leg irons but without handcuffs, under the supervision of a prison officer,” said Insp Msebele.

“The accused was walking ahead of four other inmates in a single file. He had just been sentenced to 15 years in prison for attempted rape and, in apparent frustration, jumped from a balcony on the third floor. He landed on the roof of a prison holding cell on the first floor,” she said.

An ambulance was called, and Mhilwane was transported to Mpilo Central Hospital.

“His condition is serious. He sustained internal injuries, was bleeding from his right ear, and complained of pain on his right side,” added Insp Msebele.

She said the accused will be brought before the courts on the new charges once he recovers.

Court officials expressed shock at the incident, questioning how Mhilwane managed to evade the guards.

“We were shocked. We didn’t expect such a lapse. A similar incident happened some years back. Perhaps prison guards should enhance their vigilance when escorting inmates,” said one official.

According to reports, Mhilwane broke free from prison guards shortly after his sentencing and leapt from the court building’s third floor in an attempt to escape the conviction. He survived but sustained serious injuries.

Eyewitnesses, including court officials and members of the public, watched in horror as Mhilwane lay bloodied on the first-floor roof where he had landed. Paramedics responded swiftly.