An armed robbery suspect who escaped police custody at his court hearing in a dramatic shootout has been re-arrested.
Zimbabwean law enforcement officials successfully recaptured 29-year-old Luke Zinyengere on Monday, just days after his brazen escape from Harare Magistrates Court.
The armed robbery suspect had made international headlines when he allegedly shot his way to freedom last Friday in an escape that involved shocking help from a prison officer.
Prison Officer Faces Charges in Escape Conspiracy
The sensational case took another dramatic twist as 39-year-old prison officer Donald Madzinga appeared before magistrates, accused of orchestrating the elaborate escape plan. Court documents reveal Madzinga allegedly accepted a $700 bribe to smuggle a revolver into the detention facility, directly enabling Zinyengere’s dangerous breakout.
According to prosecution evidence presented by Lancelot Mutsokoti, the escape unfolded with precision timing. As prison staff prepared to transport inmates back to Harare Remand Prison following court proceedings, Zinyengere allegedly produced the concealed firearm, creating chaos that allowed both suspects to flee.
Armed robbery suspect Luke Zinyengere re-arrested after escaping with help from prison officer-Image Source@Zimlive
While Richard Marondera, the second accused, was quickly apprehended within the court complex, Zinyengere escalated the situation by allegedly hijacking a Mazda Demio to make his getaway.
Multi-Layered Criminal Charges Stack Against Defendants
Zinyengere now faces an expanded list of serious charges, including armed robbery, illegal firearm possession, unlawful escape from lawful custody and vehicle hijacking
The case traces back to February 2024, when Zinyengere and Marondera allegedly participated in a daring $720,000 heist at Quest Financial Services in Harare. Their trial for this robbery was already underway when the escape attempt occurred.
Escape Plot Details Reveal Shocking Security Lapses
Court testimony exposed disturbing details about the escape conspiracy. Prosecutors allege that Tinotenda Zinyengere, a relative of the fugitive, delivered the revolver to Madzinga, who then smuggled it to the inmates. The correctional officer reportedly used his mobile device to coordinate the entire operation, maintaining constant communication between the prisoners and their outside accomplices.
“The defendants carefully concealed the firearm in their clothing during their court appearance,” prosecutor Mutsokoti told the courtroom. “When the opportunity presented itself during prisoner transfer, they executed their plan with terrifying efficiency.”
Judicial System Responds to Security Breach
The incident has prompted serious questions about security protocols at Harare’s judicial facilities. Legal experts suggest the case may lead to sweeping reforms in how dangerous suspects are transported and handled during court proceedings.
Madzinga remains in custody pending his bail hearing before Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa on Tuesday. Given the seriousness of the charges and potential flight risk, legal analysts predict stringent bail conditions.
