A high-risk inmate serving a lengthy sentence for violent crimes was dramatically recaptured on Tuesday after a brazen escape attempt at the Harare Magistrates Court in Zimbabwe. The incident involved the stabbing of a correctional officer and the theft of his uniform.
Violent Assault and Uniform Theft
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) identified the inmate as 33-year-old Itai Madhongo. The event unfolded on Tuesday, 13 January 2026, when Madhongo was brought to court for a separate legal proceeding. According to Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi, the ZPCS National Public Relations Officer, the inmate attacked an officer who entered his cell to escort him to court.
"The inmate assaulted a ZPCS officer... inflicting injuries to the face and neck with a sharp object," Khanyezi stated. After injuring the officer, Madhongo then stripped him of his uniform and put it on in an attempt to impersonate prison staff and walk out of the building unnoticed.
Swift Security Response and Recapture
The escape bid triggered an immediate and coordinated security lockdown. Authorities launched an intensive search involving the ZPCS SWAT team, a canine unit, and other officers on duty at the court complex.
"Thanks to the swift and coordinated response... the inmate was quickly apprehended after he was found hiding under sewer drain pipes at the Harare Magistrates Court," Khanyezi explained. However, a court official gave an alternative account to ZimLive, suggesting the convict was discovered "hiding behind wooden panels next to a corridor leading to magistrates’ offices."
The official also noted that "he had a bunch of keys on him. We suspect he took them from the prison officer." The injured correctional officer was rushed to a medical facility and was reported to be in a stable condition following the attack.
Criminal History and Court Disruption
Itai Madhongo, who is from Churu Farm in Glen View, is already serving a substantial prison term. Reports indicate he is serving between 38 and 45 years for convictions including unlawful entry, rape, and armed robbery. His court appearance on Tuesday was related to a new rape allegation.
Madhongo's brother, Simon Madhongo, was previously jailed in connection with the same series of crimes. The escape attempt caused major disruption at the Harare Magistrates Court, prompting a full lockdown and a search operation with sniffer dogs and armed officers.
The ZPCS has strongly condemned the attack on its officer and the escape attempt. The service has promised to maintain and reinforce strict security measures to prevent similar incidents in the future.
