By Desire Tshuma
MASVINGO — A manhunt is underway after two convicted prisoners, including a double-life inmate, pulled off a daring escape from Mutimurefu Prison on Friday night, 08 August 2026.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has since issued a public appeal as it intensifies efforts to track down Tafadzwa Janyure Zimirenyika, 27, and James Masunda, 34, who are believed to have absconded after breaching cell security.
Sources familiar with the incident said the pair had been ferried to Masvingo courts earlier on Friday. Zimirenyika was appearing in connection with fresh robbery charges, while Masunda was attending as a state witness in a separate matter. On their return to the correctional facility, the duo allegedly overpowered controls and cut through the prison’s perimeter fence before vanishing into the night.
ZPCS national spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Meya Khanyezi confirmed the breakout but said full details are still being collated.
Zimirenyika is regarded as one of the country’s most notorious offenders. He is serving life plus an additional 70 years after convictions for murder, attempted murder, armed robbery and rape. He also has a raft of pending High Court cases. Masunda is serving a 20-year sentence. Given the gravity of the offenses, authorities have flagged the escape as a serious public safety concern.
In a statement, the ZRP urged members of the public to come forward with any information. Anyone with information should approach the nearest Police Station, the ZRP National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, or WhatsApp 0712 800107, police said.
Law enforcement sources say dragnet operations have been rolled out across Masvingo, with roadblocks and border surveillance heightened to prevent the fugitives from skipping the country. ZPCS has also launched an internal probe into how the breach occurred. Members of the public have been warned against harboring the escapees.
This is a developing story.