ZRP, ZDF condemn violence

. . . police probe three cases

POLICE are investigating three cases of assault that have been reported in three suburbs of Harare following harmonised elections held last week.

Addressing a joint Press conference last night, Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba and her Zimbabwe Defence Forces counterpart Colonel Overson Mugwisi reiterated their condemnation of all forms of violence.

“We confirm that only three cases have been reported to the police, one each at Machipisa, Chitungwiza and Mabvuku police stations respectively,” the joint statement reads.

“The first case was perpetrated by unknown assailants who were driving a white pick-up and wearing civilian attire, who stormed a house and beat up occupants.

“The second one was perpetrated against a soldier who had his house stoned in Chitungwiza by unknown assailants and a similar modus operandi was used in Mabvuku where another house was also stoned by unknown assailants.”

The security organisations said they had noted media messages and footage detailing alleged assaults by soldiers and urged people to report such cases to the police.

“We wish, therefore, to categorically state that we condemn all forms of violence which have been brought to the attention of the police and will be investigated without fear or favour,” they said.

“Investigations on cases reported are underway.”

They also urged members of the public who have witnessed or fallen victim of the assaults to report to the police.

“We have set up standby teams that are ready to swiftly respond to such incidents,” they said.

“Where possible, without endangering yourself, please try to capture images of such assailants.

“Some of these criminals might be criminals masquerading as soldiers.”

The security forces assured the nation of adequate protection through efficient discharge of their duties.