A convicted murderer and rapist who escaped from Plumtree Prison and fled the country has been arrested at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport after being deported from Malawi, police have confirmed.
In a statement, Zimbabwe Republic Police national spokesperson Paul Nyathi said the suspect, Mike Cabangani Mathe (38) was apprehended on 24 February 2026 at the airport.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Mike Cabangani Mathe (38) in connection with a case of escaping from lawful custody in Plumtree,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Mathe had been serving a 20-year prison sentence for rape and murder when he escaped from Plumtree Prison in November last year before fleeing Zimbabwe.
Police said the fugitive was arrested upon arrival in Harare following his deportation from Malawi, bringing an end to months on the run.
In a separate development, police also confirmed the conviction and sentencing of two former footballers for drug offences.
Commissioner Nyathi said Tumai Matsika, also known as Abbas Amidu and Kudzai Mhlanga, also known as Reuben Mhlanga, were arrested, convicted and sentenced for dealing in dangerous drugs, namely dagga.
“The two appeared in court on February 24 2026 for sentencing and were each sentenced to 12 years’ imprisonment,” he said.
The ZRP commended members of the public for their continued cooperation and support in the fight against crime, as authorities intensify efforts to track fugitives and dismantle criminal networks.
