Inmate Recaptured After Daring Escape Attempt at Rotten Row Magistrates Court
The inmate who attempted a dramatic escape from Rotten Row Magistrates Court after stabbing a prison officer has been recaptured, bringing a tense security scare at the Harare court complex to a swift end.
Itai Madhongo (33), is a convicted rapist and robber who is serving a lengthy prison sentence at Chikurubi Maximum Security Prison.
He was in court on fresh charges when he launched the brazen escape bid earlier today.
Also Read: Inmate Stabs Prison Officer, Escapes Rotten Row Court in Officer’s Uniform
Prison Officer Attacked and Disguised in Court Escape Plot
According to prosecutors, Madhongo stabbed a Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) officer who was guarding him inside the court building. He then stripped the officer of his uniform, handcuffed him to a metal bar, and disguised himself in the officer’s attire in an attempt to flee unnoticed.
The suspect allegedly also took a bunch of keys from the officer, raising further concerns about security procedures within the court premises.
Manhunt and Court Lockdown
The incident triggered an immediate lockdown at Rotten Row Magistrates Court shortly after midday. Proceedings were suspended as reinforcements from ZPCS, including officers accompanied by a sniffer dog, were deployed to search the building.
The escape attempt caused panic among court officials, legal practitioners, and members of the public who were inside the complex at the time.
Escape Bid Short-Lived
Despite the elaborate disguise, Madhongo’s escape was short-lived.
According to ZimLive, he was discovered moments later hiding behind wooden panels near a corridor leading to magistrates’ offices.
Injured Officer Hospitalised
Meanwhile, the injured prison officer was rushed to Parirenyatwa Hospital, where he is receiving medical treatment. His condition has not yet been disclosed.
Authorities are expected to investigate how the inmate managed to obtain a weapon and carry out the attack within the court premises.
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The post Inmate Recaptured After Daring Escape Attempt at Rotten Row Magistrates Court appeared first on iHarare News.
