Rowdy inmates set Chikurubi on fire

Rowdy inmates at Chikurubi Maximum Prison unsuccessfully attempted to set one of the blocks on fire today.

It is not clear what the motive for setting the fire was and initial reports say no one escaped.

Preliminary investigations revealed that the fire might have been started by a group of five inmates who set several blankets ablaze at the maximum correctional facility on the outskirts of Harare.

The blaze then spread to a staircase ceiling on one of the blocks which houses about 445 inmates.

The fire brigade was called and put out the fire while prison officers quickly cordoned the area.

Prison officers say they heard some of the inmates urging their colleagues not to eat their meal protesting that the relish was not good enough.

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services Deputy Commissioner General (audit and inspectorate) Agrey Machingauta told ZBC News the situation has been reported to police and investigations are underway.

At least three prison officers were injured by pieces of asbestos flung at them by other prisoners who joined in the rioting.

Those found to have taken part are expected to face allegations of rioting and attempting to escape from prison.

Investigations by both police and prisons and correctional services are continuing.