Zimbabwean murder suspect tries to flee Bots court

A Zimbabwean man and a Motswana facing charges of murder and robbery last week attempted to escape from lawful custody but were re-arrested after a short pursuit.

Mid Week Sun newspaper reported that Jabulani Kesiile (23) of Somerset West location in Botswana and Hebert Jazire (23) from Masvingo attempted to flee from a court in Francistown while awaiting trial.

Kesiile, a convict, was facing charges of murder and robbery while Jazire had five separate counts of robbery. The two, who were seated in the gallery, allegedly seized an opportunity to escape because Francistown principal magistrate Thebeetsile Christian Mulalu had not started court proceedings.

Reports reveal the two pleaded with prison warders to unshackle them since they were not feeling comfortable.  The unsuspecting police and prison warders heeded the duo's call and unshackled them.

"Jazire picked up a water glass and jumped over the court orderlies' desk. He threatened to smash the faces of those who attempted to stand in his way as they bolted out of the courtroom through the exit door that leads to the magistrates' chambers," police officer said.

Jazire was re-arrested 20 minutes later while trying to get into a bus rank.
Kesiile was caught by members of the public and Special Support Group (SSG) officers while trying to climb over the fence at the Francistown College of Education (FCE).

Police Superintendent Cyprian Magalela of Francistown Central Police Station said the two were no danger to the public as they had been re-arrested.