Real Life Prison Break At Harare Central Prison: Inmate Escapes Using Workshop Vehicle

A brazen inmate pulled off a real-life prison break from Harare Central Prison on Sunday. Jeffrey Jingura simply drove out of the facility in a vehicle he was supposed to be repairing. The shocking escape triggered an urgent nationwide alert from authorities.

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) confirmed the dramatic incident. They posted a public warning on their official Facebook page on Sunday, 21 December 2025. A massive manhunt is now on for the fugitive.

“Do Not Approach Him If Sighted”

The ZPCS did not mince words in their alert to the public. Their warning was stark and immediate, naming the escaped man and detailing his method.

The ZPCS post laid out the chilling facts of the getaway. It revealed how a rehabilitation programme became a tool for escape.

“The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) would like to inform members of the public of an incident involving the escape of inmate Jeffrey Jingura. The inmate escaped while in possession of a motor vehicle that he was repairing at the Harare Central Prison Workshops,” the statement read.

The directive to the public was unambiguous. Citizens were warned exactly how to react if they saw the wanted man.

“Members of the public are advised to exercise caution and vigilance. Do not approach him if sighted. Instead, please immediately contact the nearest police station or the ZPCS emergency line,” the alert urged, providing the contact numbers 0242 706501 and 0242 762724.

Workshop Programme Exploited For Getaway

The escape has thrown a harsh light on prison security protocols. Jingura was a participant in the prison’s vocational training scheme, a fact the ZPCS openly confirmed.

The service stated this was part of their standard initiative to prepare inmates for life after release. The programme meant he had access to tools and vehicles.

The ZPCS Facebook post explained his role before the breakout.

“At the time of the incident, the inmate was attached to the Harare Central Prison Workshops, where he was participating in a motor mechanics programme. This vocational training forms part of the ZPCS’s standard rehabilitation initiatives,” the service said.

Nationwide Manhunt Grips The Country

A full-scale investigation and search operation has been launched. The ZPCS has handed the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP).

In their statement, the prison service attempted to calm public nerves.

“We wish to assure the nation that investigations are currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident. The matter has been reported to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for further action,” officials wrote.

They ended their alert with a plea for public help and a promise of action.

“We call on the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist in the recapture of the inmate. Rest assured, we are working tirelessly to resolve this matter and to uphold the safety and security of our communities,” the ZPCS stated.

The hunt for Jeffrey Jingura continues. The public is on high alert after one of the most audacious prison breaks in recent memory.