A shocking prison escape that unfolded like a movie scene has left authorities in Zimbabwe scrambling. An inmate managed to overpower a prison officer, stab him, and then flee the Rotten Row Magistrates Court while disguised in the officer's stolen uniform.
A Cinematic and Violent Escape Plan
The dramatic incident occurred on Monday, January 13, 2026. According to reports from DailyNews, the inmate allegedly attacked the prison officer inside the court premises. After stabbing the officer, the prisoner then handcuffed him and proceeded to undress him. The inmate put on the officer's uniform, effectively disguising himself, before calmly walking out of the building to freedom.
Witnesses to the brazen event were left in utter disbelief, with many describing the sequence of events as something "straight out of a movie." The immediate aftermath threw the entire courthouse into chaos, triggering an emergency lockdown. All court proceedings were abruptly halted as security personnel launched a frantic search within the building, trying to ascertain what had happened and regain control of the situation.
Nationwide Manhunt and Public Reaction
Following the escape, authorities quickly initiated a widespread manhunt for the fugitive. Security forces began searching surrounding areas and monitoring all possible exit routes from the city. Despite these efforts, the inmate remained at large at the time the initial reports were filed. Investigations are actively ongoing, and officials have made a public appeal, urging anyone with useful information that could lead to the inmate's recapture to come forward immediately.
The news sparked a major reaction on social media, blending shock with dark humour. Many Nigerian users drew immediate comparisons to the popular television series Prison Break. However, beyond the jokes, serious questions about security lapses began to dominate the conversation. The public raised critical concerns:
- How did the inmate acquire a weapon inside a supposedly secure courthouse?
- Was the prison officer properly restrained or was there a moment of negligence?
- Could there have been insider involvement that facilitated this audacious escape?
Serious Questions About Court Security
This incident has put a glaring spotlight on the security protocols at the Rotten Row Magistrates Court and similar institutions. The ease with which the inmate overpowered an officer, obtained a weapon, and executed his escape plan suggests significant vulnerabilities. While some social media commentators were quick to accuse prison staff of negligence, the investigation will need to determine the exact chain of failures that allowed this to happen.
The escape serves as a stark reminder of the constant challenges faced by correctional and court security services. It underscores the need for continuous review and tightening of security measures to prevent such daring and dangerous breaches in the future. The people of Zimbabwe, and observers in Nigeria and beyond, will be watching closely to see how quickly the fugitive is apprehended and what steps are taken to ensure such an event does not repeat itself.
