Crimes and Courts
GWANDA – A Gwanda prisoner’s bold daylight escape during a firewood collection detail lasted barely 24 hours before authorities tracked him to his rural homestead, earning him an additional four months behind bars.
Nkosilathi Lunga, already serving a three-year sentence for stock theft, pleaded guilty before Magistrate Gillian Padzakashamba to escaping lawful custody on July 28. Prosecutor Mercy Nyathi detailed how Lunga exploited unsupervised labour at Mapane Prison Farm:
“The accused and other inmates were collecting firewood when he seized the opportunity to flee. His freedom was short-lived thanks to our vigilant officers.”
Swift Justice:
· Guilty Plea: Lunga admitted to the escape charge during arraignment.
· Enhanced Sentence: Received 6 months’ imprisonment with 2 months suspended for 5 years, adding 4 effective months to his existing term.
· Capture: Prison teams tracked Lunga to “Dry Paddock” in his Kezi hometown within hours.
A prison official, speaking anonymously, emphasized:
“This outcome sends a clear message – our tracking systems and community networks make escape attempts futile. Every inmate should heed this lesson.”
Magistrate Padzakashamba noted the recklessness of the attempt during sentencing, stressing that “escaping lawful custody undermines the justice system and endangers communities.”
Institutional Vigilance:
The incident highlights prison authorities’ rapid response capabilities.
“We treat every escape as critical,” the prison official added.
“Collaboration with rural communities ensures no hiding place lasts long.”
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