Looting and raids reported in Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe’s security forces have reported incidents of looting and illegal occupation of farms and houses following the resignation of Robert Mugabe and the inauguration of his successor, Emmerson Mnangagwa.

However, the military and police said in a joint statement that the “situation in our country has returned to normalcy” after a crisis during which the military staged a takeover and crowds demonstrated against Mugabe at the end of his 37-year rule.

Police will assume their role “as stipulated in the constitution” and conduct joint patrols with the military, including in the capital’s central business district, the statement said. Many Zimbabweans applauded the military for its role in Mugabe’s resignation on 21 November, but resent the police for alleged corruption.