A senior Zimbabwean police officer, his wife and nine police officers were arrested Wednesday following the deaths of three people they allegedly assaulted while investigating the disappearance of a mobile phone and some money.
Inspector Shumba allegedly led his officers and attacked villagers in Shamva South, accusing them of stealing his wife's phone and some ten United States dollars. They are currently in custody at the Bindura police station as investigations continue.
The deceased, Luxmore Chivambu, and a man only identified as ‘Giant’ and an unidentified woman, were among those assaulted by the armed officers Sunday night in Shamva South.
Shumba’s wife, a vendor in the area.
Police spokesman Senior Assistant Commissioner Wayne Bvudzijena told The Herald newspaper that only one person died, adding that the police were “investigating the case and will leave no stone unturned”.
Shamva resident Lemani Pwanyiwa confirmed to VOA's Jonga Kandemiiri that three people died, adding seven were injured. Chivambu’s body was taken to Harare for a post mortem.
Meanwhile youths from President Robert Mugabe’s ZANU-PF party Tuesday fought openly for the control of a militant group, Upfumi Kuvadiki, that is known for grabbing markets and businesses in the capital.
The fight occurred at a press conference called by the group’s faction led by one Alison Darikai.
Midway through the conference, members of another faction led by Tatenda Maroodza stormed the room saying Darikai and his group were fake. They ordered the media to leave immediately.
The youths climbed on top of chairs and tables, threatening to beat everyone in the room. They also pulled down and tore banners with Mr. Mugabe’s pictures as some of them looted food, drinks and sweets.
