Online Reporter
Crime Reporter
An armed inmate who recently staged a dramatic escape from Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officers at the Harare Magistrates Court has been arrested.
Luke Zinyengerere was arrested together with four of his relatives.
In a scene reminiscent of a movie, Zinyengerere recently pointed a gun at the officers escorting prisoners to their transport van, hijacked a vehicle and speed off.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest.
“Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s statement released on March 22, 2025. The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Luke Zinyengere (29) in connection with a case of escaping from lawful custody, armed robbery and unlawful possession of a firearm.
“The police also arrested the suspect’s relatives, Tatenda Zinyengere (19), Kelvin Chinganga (31), Siphelile Zinyengere and Obey Rwaendepi (28) for assisting the suspect to escape from the court premises. After the escape, they harboured Zinyengere,” he said.
Preliminary investigations revealed that Zinyengere’s young brother, Tatenda Zinyengere, allegedly provided the pistol that was used in escaping from custody and robbing Tinashe Chiyamuro of his Mazda Demio vehicle.
The vehicle was then abandoned along Kaguvi Street in Harare.
Zinyengerere then joined the other suspects and they attempted to facilitate his escape to a neighbouring country.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns the public against harbouring criminals and defeating or obstructing the course of justice.
“Members of the public are implored to report criminal activities on national complaints number (0242) 703631, on WhatsApp 0712 800107 or at the nearest police station,” said Comm Nyathi.
