Calm and normalcy returns at Chikurubi Maximun Prison

Normalcy has returned at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison following the riot by prisoners over poor food and ill treatment.

Zimbabwe Prison and Correctional Services spokesperson Elizabeth Banda yesterday said everything was back to normal after the stampede by prisoners who were refusing to have sadza and vegetables for lunch.

According to reports from the Newsday, Banda said no one escaped from prison and they do not have any inmates like that who died in custody, the prisoners allegedly burnt office furniture and grounds at the high security area, others climbing on tower lights, daring the prison guards.

One prisoner was killed, while 11 others eight inmates and three prison guards - were seriously injured when 900 prisoners ran amok at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison yesterday afternoon, protesting against poor food quality.

The inmates torched blankets and damaged property in the melee that lasted for more than three hours.

Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) sources said the riot started around noon.

Initial reports had indicated that five prisoners had disarmed guards and escaped.

The fire brigade was called in to put out the fire. So tense was the situation that most visitors were not allowed in.