Two inmates escape from Mutimurefu Prison in Zimbabwe

Two high-profile inmates escaped from the maximum-security Mutimurefu Prison in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, on the night of August 7, 2026. The escapees have been identified as Tafadzwa Zimirenyika Janyure, 27, and James Masunda, 34.

Janyure, a convicted murderer and rapist, was serving a life sentence plus an additional 70-year term. He also faces further charges in the High Court. Masunda was serving a 20-year prison sentence. Both men reportedly breached security and exited through the prison perimeter fence following court proceedings in Masvingo.

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) confirmed the incident, while the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued an appeal for public assistance in locating the men. Authorities have urged anyone with information to contact the nearest police station or the ZRP National Complaints Desk.