Fugitive Zambian MP Emmanuel Jay Banda Captured in Zimbabwe After Three-Month Manhunt
In a major development, Zimbabwean authorities have arrested Emmanuel Jay Banda, an independent Zambian Member of Parliament for Petauke Central, who had been on the run since escaping custody in August 2024.
Banda was apprehended in Harare on November 19, 2024, bringing an end to a three-month manhunt
Also Read: Zimbabwean Nationals Arrested For Possessing A Stripped Government Vehicle Parts In Mpumalanga
Escape from Hospital Under Police Watch
Banda escaped from Chipata General Hospital in Zambia on August 4, 2024, while under police and correctional service guard. At the time, he was receiving medical treatment and was in custody on serious charges, including aggravated robbery and attempted murder.
The escape prompted the Zambian government to offer a two million Kwacha reward 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, praising the cooperation between the two countries. In his statement, Mwiimbu said:
“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 before his capture, which occurred at around 10:00 a.m. on November 19.
A Troubled Legal History
Banda, who has been serving as an MP since 2021, is no stranger to controversy. His current charges trace back to an incident at Mzigawa Primary School in Vubwi District on December 14, 2015. Court documents allege that Banda was involved in a robbery that saw the theft of property valued at 12,000 Kwacha (approximately $435). Stolen items reportedly included a Canon camera, spectacles, two bank cards, and cash.
Banda has been associated with the opposition Patriotic Front and former President Edgar Lungu, who lost the presidency to Hakainde Hichilema in 2023
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