A Harare man who escaped from prison has been slapped with a 22-year jail sentence after his dramatic escape from holding at the magistrates’ court.
A convicted criminal who made headlines last month after escaping from Harare Magistrate Court while armed has been sentenced to 22 years behind bars following his dramatic recapture.
Man who escaped from prison gets 22 years sentence
Luke Zinyengere faced justice before Regional Magistrate Letwin Rwodzi, who delivered a stern verdict emphasising the gravity of prison breaks. The court heard how Zinyengere and accomplice Tafadzwa Marondera (who received a 10-year sentence) executed their escape last month in what authorities described as a meticulously planned operation.
ALSO READ: Scottland FC’s League Dreams in Turmoil After Owner Meddling Sparks Player Revolt
Zinyengere’s sentence includes additional years for the armed hijacking of a vehicle used in his escape attempt. Magistrate Rwodzi imposed consecutive sentences of 10 years for the jailbreak and 12 years for the armed robbery.
Court Condemns “Movie-Style” Criminal Behaviour
In her ruling, Magistrate Rwodzi condemned the defendant’s actions: “This was no ordinary crime – the planning and execution resembled a Hollywood film scene, causing significant trauma to court staff, bystanders, and especially the carjacking victim.”
The magistrate noted that while Zinyengere had no prior convictions and family responsibilities, the severity of his crimes demanded maximum penalties. “Escaping lawful custody demonstrates an unwillingness for rehabilitation. Society requires protection from such calculated criminal behavior,” Rwodzi stated.
Defendant’s Plea for Leniency Rejected
During sentencing proceedings, Zinyengere appealed for mercy, claiming he needed to check on his cellphone business in Mozambique. “I regret my actions, especially stealing the vehicle which I only used for escape purposes. My family now suffers without their provider,” the convict told the court.
ALSO READ: Mai Dhuterere case collapses
State prosecutor Loveit Muringwa successfully argued against leniency, highlighting Zinyengere’s pending armed robbery charges. The court ultimately agreed that the escape’s sophistication and potential danger to the public warranted harsh punishment as a deterrent.
