Online Reporter
Sunday News Reporter
A prison officer facing charges of inciting violence dramatically escaped from custody after allegedly sneaking out of court disguised as a fellow officer during a routine remand appearance.
Zandile Mhlanga, who is employed by the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service, had appeared in court for a scheduled remand hearing when the incident occurred.
Sources said Mhlanga, who was in custody at the time, is believed to have changed into a prison officer’s uniform while inside the court holding cells before walking out of the premises unnoticed.
“She managed to blend in with officers escorting other inmates and exited the court building without raising suspicion,” said a source familiar with the developments.
Authorities only realised that Mhlanga had escaped after she could not be accounted for following the court proceedings.
Mhlanga is facing charges of inciting violence, and had been remanded in custody pending further hearings.
Law enforcement agencies have since launched a manhunt, with investigations also focusing on how she obtained the uniform and whether there was any internal assistance.
Officials said security procedures at the court are now under review following the incident, amid concerns over possible lapses that allowed the escape.
Police have urged members of the public with information on Mhlanga’s whereabouts to report to the nearest police station.
More details are expected to emerge as investigations continue.
