A dramatic prison escape has triggered a massive nationwide search operation in Zimbabwe. The incident saw an inmate drive out of the heavily guarded Harare Central Prison in a vehicle he was assigned to fix, exploiting a vocational training programme.
Details of the Daring Escape
The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS) officially confirmed the escape of inmate Jeffrey Jingura. In a statement released on its Facebook page, the service detailed that the escape occurred on 23 December 2025.
Jingura was participating in a motor mechanics training scheme, a standard rehabilitation initiative run by the ZPCS. "The inmate escaped while in possession of a motor vehicle that he was repairing at the Harare Central Prison Workshops," the statement read.
Nationwide Alert and Public Warning
Authorities have issued an urgent public alert, warning citizens to be extremely cautious. The ZPCS strongly advised the public not to approach Jingura if seen.
"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 emphasized, listing relevant emergency contacts.
The case has now been transferred to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who have launched a full investigation into the circumstances that allowed the escape to happen.
Ongoing Manhunt and Appeals
A full-scale search for Jeffrey Jingura is currently ongoing across Zimbabwe. Prison officials have assured the nation that they are working tirelessly to resolve the matter and ensure community safety.
In their appeal, the ZPCS stated, "We call on the public to remain vigilant and to report any information that may assist in the recapture of the inmate." Security has been tightened at various points as authorities track all possible movements of the fugitive.
The incident has raised serious questions about security protocols within the prison's vocational workshop areas, with investigations focused on understanding the exact lapse.
