Masvingo Robber Jailed for 27 Years After Prison Escape

By Southerton Business Times Reporter, Harare

A convicted armed robber who escaped from Mutimurefu Prison in July has been sentenced to 27 years in prison for escaping from lawful custody and committing a series of robberies in Masvingo. James Masunda, 34, was convicted on four counts by Masvingo provincial magistrate Christopher Maturure on 6 October 2026.

Prosecutor Liberty Hove told the court that Masunda escaped from Mutimurefu Farm Prison at around midnight on 8 July, together with Tafadzwa Janyure, who remains at large. The court heard that the two inmates used an unknown object to break the burglar bars of their cell before scaling the prison perimeter fence. Hours after escaping, the pair allegedly targeted a tuck shop in Takaendesa Village, under Chief Chikwanda. They reportedly posed as customers before forcing their way into the shop and threatening the 18-year-old owner, Progress Munamati.

The robbers stole groceries, including biscuits, soft drinks, tinned fish and packets of Zap Nax, as well as US$25 in cash.

Toyota Vitz Stolen During Village Robbery

On 8 August, Masunda and Janyure allegedly raided the homestead of Jacob Moyo in Gonhavi Village, under Chief Chikwanda. According to the State, the pair forced open a bedroom door and demanded money while armed. When Moyo told them he had no cash, they allegedly took his white Toyota Vitz, valued at US$3,500, and drove away.

Neighbours pursued the suspects, forcing Masunda to abandon the vehicle in the bush. The car was later recovered. The pair allegedly struck again on 8 September at the homestead of 40-year-old Medeline Mudzingwa in Mudare Village, also under Chief Chikwanda. The court heard that they forced open the kitchen door while Mudzingwa was having dinner with her family. Masunda allegedly threatened her with a machete and demanded money. Mudzingwa handed over US$178, while clothing and a satchel valued at US$188 were also stolen. Some of the clothing was subsequently recovered.

Police Track Down Masunda

Police later tracked Masunda to a hideout in Mhatsa Village, under Chief Nyajena, where he was arrested. His alleged accomplice, Janyure, remains at large. Masunda’s 27-year prison sentence follows the escape and the series of robberies reported in the months that followed. The case also leaves an outstanding question for law enforcement, as police continue to look for Janyure.

James Masunda 27-year prison sentence