A daring escape has sparked a nationwide manhunt in Zimbabwe after an inmate drove out of Harare Central Prison in a vehicle he was assigned to repair.
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) confirmed that the fugitive, Jeffrey Jingura, exploited a prison vocational programme to make his escape, triggering an urgent public alert.
“The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services would like to inform members of the public of an incident involving the escape of inmate Jeffrey Jingura,” the service said in a statement posted on its official Facebook page. “The inmate escaped while in possession of a motor vehicle that he was repairing at the Harare Central Prison Workshops.”
Authorities issued a strong warning to the public, urging caution. “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 read, listing emergency contacts.
ZPCS confirmed that Jingura was attached to the prison workshops as part of a motor mechanics training scheme. “At the time of the incident, the inmate was participating in a motor mechanics programme. This vocational training forms part of the ZPCS’s standard rehabilitation initiatives,” the service explained.
The case has been handed over to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, with investigations underway to determine how the escape occurred. “We wish to assure the nation that investigations are currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding this incident,” ZPCS said, adding that a full-scale search is ongoing.
Officials appealed for public assistance, saying, “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 hunt for Jeffrey Jingura continues as authorities tighten security and track his movements nationwide.