Escaped inmate recaptured after stabbing prison officer at court

Proceedings at Harare Magistrates Court were halted on Tuesday after a dramatic incident involving an inmate who stabbed a Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer before attempting to escape.

The suspect, identified as Itai Madhongo, a convicted serial rapist serving a 38-year sentence for rape and armed robbery, allegedly attacked the officer, disarmed him, forced him to undress, and seized his uniform. Madhongo then attempted to flee the court premises using the uniform as a disguise.

Authorities immediately launched a manhunt, with ZPCS support teams deployed to assist in the search. The suspect was subsequently apprehended, restoring order at the court.

During the incident, the court's main entrance was temporarily closed, and a heavy security presence was maintained to ensure the safety of staff and the public. Investigations into the escape attempt and attack are ongoing.