Plumtree Prison Break: Inmates reveal SHOCKING truth about Mike Mathe’s escape… He was serving 20 years for deadly crimes

Plumtree is gripped by fear and confusion following the audacious escape of convicted rapist and murder suspect, Cabangani Mike Mathe, from Plumtree Prison. The breakout, which occurred in the early hours of Saturday, 15 November, has triggered a massive manhunt, with authorities scrambling to recapture the dangerous fugitive who remains at large six days later. The incident has not only rattled the residents of Plumtree but also those in the surrounding areas of Bulilima and Mangwe, who are now living in fear.

The Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) spokesperson, Chief Superintendent Meya Khanyezi, confirmed that security teams were deployed immediately after the escape. However, she has yet to address the swirling theories and allegations surrounding the circumstances of Mathe’s disappearance.

The Escape: A Timeline of Fear

Mathe, who was serving a 20-year sentence for rape, handed down on 29 August, was also due to appear in court on 19 November for a physical abuse case, and later face trial for murder. His escape has raised serious questions about security protocols at Plumtree Prison and has fuelled speculation of possible collusion or negligence.

According to initial reports, Mathe allegedly used a hacksaw blade to cut through the window burglar bars before slipping out of his cell. He then reportedly cut through a razor-wired fence near the dog yard and fled through the officers’ residential gate. Despite an immediate search by prison guards, Mathe remains at large.

Inmate Accounts: A Web of Suspicion

However, accounts from inmates within the prison paint a far more complex and disturbing picture. Speaking to the news crew under condition of anonymity, several prisoners have cast doubt on the official narrative, suggesting that Mathe’s escape was anything but ordinary.

One inmate stated, “They were waiting for this to happen. Everyone knew Mathe is dangerous. Keeping him here was asking for trouble.” This statement highlights the incredulity among prisoners that Mathe, a man with a history of violence and intimidation, was housed at Plumtree Prison instead of a maximum-security facility.

Another inmate claimed to have overheard prison guards discussing Mathe climbing on top of other prisoners to reach the window. “He said inmates screamed and banged on doors but no guard responded. The noise from hacking metal would have been enough to raise the dead,” the inmate stated, questioning how such a noisy escape could have gone unnoticed.

Adding to the suspicion, another source insisted that the bars may have been cut after Mathe escaped, suggesting a deliberate attempt to cover up the true circumstances. “Someone wanted it to look neat. It was too quiet. I do not believe he did that alone. Mathe has a history of getting help from authorities,” the source claimed.

These accounts raise serious questions about the level of involvement, or negligence, of prison staff in Mathe’s escape. The fact that two prison officers have had their smartphones seized as part of the ongoing investigation only adds fuel to the fire.

A History of Violence and Intimidation

For years, Mathe moved around Plumtree and surrounding areas as if he were untouchable. He reportedly boasted that the police could never arrest him, and many victims were too afraid to speak out against him. His conviction in August, therefore, came as a shock to many.

Court documents detailed the horrific nature of his crimes, including an incident where he forced a female employee into icy water, dunked her until she fainted, raped her, and then ordered her to work the next morning as if nothing had happened.

Other pending cases against Mathe include allegations of abusing a minor and tying up a woman with handcuffs before beating her. His name is also linked to the infamous “Judas Cop” saga, involving a rogue officer accused of removing a woman from protective custody and handing her over to Mathe. The woman was later murdered in Botswana, further highlighting the gravity of the allegations against Mathe.

Community in Fear

With Mathe now back on the streets, the fear that gripped Plumtree for so long has returned. Residents are living in a state of anxiety, with many taking extra precautions to protect themselves and their families.

Reports indicate that some families are temporarily relocating to rural areas, while others are keeping a closer watch on their surroundings. Some have even switched off their social media accounts, fearing potential threats.

The escape has reopened old wounds for many victims and witnesses, who are now living in fear of retribution. The lack of clear communication from authorities has only exacerbated the situation, with residents desperate for reassurance that everything is being done to recapture Mathe.

Authorities Respond

While the ZPCS and police have assured the public that a manhunt is underway, residents are hoping for more than just assurances. They want to see clear communication and regular updates on the progress of the search. Transparency, they believe, is crucial to calming nerves and providing reassurance to those directly affected.

The police in Plumtree have seized the officers’ smartphones as part of widening investigations into how one of the region’s most feared men managed to slip out of a secure facility without raising alarm.

Lessons to be Learned

This incident highlights the challenges of managing high-risk inmates in any correctional facility. Mathe’s history, which includes violent crimes and intimidation of victims, made him a high-profile prisoner. While Plumtree Prison has resources and trained officers, escapes show that constant vigilance and careful planning are essential to prevent similar situations in the future.

The focus must now be on thoroughly investigating the circumstances surrounding Mathe’s escape, holding those responsible accountable, and implementing measures to prevent future incidents. The safety and security of the community depend on it.

Call to Vigilance

Communities are reminded that authorities are actively working to recapture Mathe. Residents are urged to report any sightings or suspicious activity while maintaining caution. Precautions such as keeping homes secure and staying alert are recommended until the suspect is back in custody.