More Jail Time for Escape Plotters

Two convicted armed robbers already serving a lengthy prison term have been sentenced to an additional 12 years following a full trial in Harare.

Harare magistrate Noel Mpeiwa handed down the new sentence to Tafadzwa Richard Marondera (21) and Luke Zinyengere (45), both of whom are currently incarcerated after being previously convicted and sentenced to 22 years.

During the trial, Mpeiwa noted that the duo had failed to present a credible defense and stated that the prosecution had presented irrefutable evidence linking them to the armed robbery.

According to prosecutor Tendai Tapi, the robbery occurred on January 22, 2024, when Marondera and Zinyengere assaulted Tinashe Chikove while brandishing two firearms. The two stole several items, including 11 iPhones, during the attack.

Their previous conviction stemmed from a daring plot to escape from prison earlier this year. The court heard that Marondera and Zinyengere had collaborated with prison officer Donald Madzinga to smuggle a revolver into their cell. The weapon was covertly delivered by Zinyengere’s younger brother, Tinotenda, hidden inside a bowl of rice.

On March 21, 2025, while en route to a court appearance, the duo launched their escape attempt. Zinyengere concealed the revolver in his trousers and, once outside, pulled it on the escorting officers, sparking a chaotic scene.

He managed to scale the perimeter fence of the courthouse and fled, while Marondera was caught before he could make it out.

During his escape, Zinyengere hijacked a brown Mazda Demio, threatening the driver with the revolver before speeding off. The vehicle was later found abandoned the next day along Kaguvi Street.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing Zinyengere flee on foot, dressed in civilian clothing. After a three-day manhunt, detectives from the CID Homicide Unit apprehended him on March 24, near Electrosales along Mutare Road

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