Anti-roadblock protesters denied bail

EIGHT commuter omnibus operators who were arrested last Wednesday for public violence after they staged a demonstration against alleged increasing roadblocks and police corruption in Kwekwe, have been denied bail.

Kwekwe magistrate Mr Lavroe Philemon remanded Takudzwa Wellington Bushe (25), Aaron Mateswana (29), King Museranwa (25), Alifios Munemo (26), Richard Mhlanga (26), Progressive Magombedze (20), Witness Moyo (32) and Richard Mapfumo (21) to 4 August for trial when they appeared before him on Friday facing public violence charges.

The court session was held under heavy police guard amid reports that touts intended to protest in solidarity with their colleagues. Defence counsel led by Mr Artwell Chinamatire of Mavhiringidze and Mashanyare had applied for bail citing that the accused were not potential flight risks. Mr Chinamatire, also stated that none of the eight had resisted arrest or refused to co-operate with the police hence they were ideal candidates for bail. The State represented by Ms Yeukai Mugumba opposed bail arguing that cases of violence were increasing in the area.

“It is the State’s case that the eight acted in common purpose and if granted bail it is most likely that not all of them will attend court. The only option is securing their attendance for the finalisation of the case by detaining them,” said Ms Mugumba.

She further argued that the violence was perpetrated towards law enforcement agents, a crime that attracts a maximum of 10 years imprisonment. In denying them bail, Mr Philemon said the accused may interfere with police investigations and were also possible flight risks who needed to be detained to ensure they attend trial.

The eight stand accused of public violence and beating up police officers who were manning a roadblock at Lancashire Steel turn of along Mbizo Road accusing them of being corrupt. A police officer was reportedly injured in the demonstrations.

Meanwhile, four touts who were arrested on the same day on the same charges have been released on $100 bail each.

Shingirai Mudzamiri, Anesu Mbirarume, Ngonidzashe Zimondi and Brian Gondogwe who were arrested on the same day at Mbizo were represented by Mr Chinamatira and had their bail paid for by the Redcliff-Kwekwe Commuter Omnibus Association.

They were ordered to reside at their stated addresses and report twice a week at Mbizo Police Station.