Information reaching this publication indicates that an inmate has escaped lawful custody at Rumphi Prison.

The incident happened on Monday, according to information gathered by this publication.

He escaped when he and other prisoners were outside on prison errands.

Sources inside the prison have identified the inmate as Harry Mtete who was serving a two-year jail term for theft.

Station officer for Rumphi police, Hadscort Mtegha, has refused to comment on the matter saying he is waiting for a report from prison warders who were guarding the inmates.