A Principal Correctional Officer faces criminal charges after authorities accused him of illegally releasing a convicted armed robber. Chamunorwa Matshalaga worked at Khami Maximum Prison Complex when he allegedly helped free Charles Nyarondo from a 62-year sentence. Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Mark Dzira denied Matshalaga bail during Friday's proceedings. Prosecutor Siphiwe Mhlanga argued the offense represents serious corruption that damages public confidence. The court remanded Matshalaga until October 2 amid concerns he might flee or tamper with evidence.
Nyarondo had received his lengthy sentence for six armed robbery convictions committed during 2023 and 2024. Matshalaga served on an amnesty selection committee responsible for identifying eligible inmates under Presidential Clemency provisions. Authorities claim he wrongfully placed Nyarondo on the beneficiary list despite clear disqualification criteria. The officer allegedly classified the inmate under age-based release terms while violating the Government Gazette exclusions. The clemency order specifically bars inmates convicted under certain criminal statutes from age-related releases.
Nyarondo had received his lengthy sentence for six armed robbery convictions committed during 2023 and 2024. Matshalaga served on an amnesty selection committee responsible for identifying eligible inmates under Presidential Clemency provisions. Authorities claim he wrongfully placed Nyarondo on the beneficiary list despite clear disqualification criteria. The officer allegedly classified the inmate under age-based release terms while violating the Government Gazette exclusions. The clemency order specifically bars inmates convicted under certain criminal statutes from age-related releases.
