In a significant development, Zimbabwean authorities have apprehended Emmanuel Jay Banda, an independent Member of Parliament for Petauke Central, who had been on the run since escaping custody in August 2024.
Banda was arrested in Harare on November 19, 2024, bringing an end to a three-month manhunt.
Escape from Hospital Under Police Watch
Banda’s escape occurred on August 4, 2024, while he was under police and correctional service guard at Chipata General Hospital in Zambia.
He was receiving medical treatment at the time and was in custody facing serious charges, including aggravated robbery and attempted murder.
Following his escape, the Zambian government offered a reward of two million Kwacha for information leading to his capture.
Arrest in Harare and Government Confirmation
Zambia’s Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, confirmed Banda’s arrest in Zimbabwe, commending the cooperation between the two countries.
In his statement, Mwiimbu noted:
“The Home Affairs and Internal Security Ministry wishes to inform the public that Honourable Emmanuel Jay Banda, who escaped from lawful custody at Chipata General Hospital on the night of August 4, 2024, has been apprehended in Zimbabwe.”
He revealed that Banda had been renting a flat in Harare prior to his capture, which took place around 10:00 a.m. on November 19.
A Troubled Legal History
Banda, who has served as an MP since 2021, has a controversial legal history.
His current charges date back to an incident at Mzigawa Primary School in Vubwi District on December 14, 2015.
Court documents allege that he was involved in a robbery that resulted in the theft of property valued at 12,000 Kwacha (approximately $435), including items such as a Canon camera, spectacles, two bank cards, and cash.
Banda is also associated with the opposition Patriotic Front and former President Edgar Lungu, who lost the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2023.
As the situation unfolds, authorities are now focused on ensuring Banda’s extradition back to Zambia to face the serious charges against him.
Source: iHarare