By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
Harare, Zimbabwe — A police officer accused of killing a suspect while in custody has caused widespread outrage after being granted bail despite evading arrest for nearly two weeks.
Constable Prince Ndavambi, 39, is accused of fatally assaulting 30-year-old Blessed Believe Juruvenge at Ruwa Police Station in late May. Ndavambi was finally arrested on June 10, 2025, and appeared in court the next day. He was granted bail of US$400 (about R7,400) and was remanded to July 2.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), on May 27, 2025, Ndavambi arrested Juruvenge over allegations of assault and theft linked to a US$200 (approximately R3,700) dispute. While in custody, it is alleged that Ndavambi assaulted Juruvenge using a hoe handle before placing him in the cells. Juruvenge died within 24 hours of his arrest at Ruwa Rehabilitation Clinic.
Juruvenge’s sister, Melissa Manyepa, who was present at the police station, told investigators:
“He said Blessed would leave the station dead. He kept beating him.”
Manyepa also said she was slapped after refusing to accept the police’s version of events.
Ndavambi disappeared from duty on May 28, the day Juruvenge died. He evaded arrest for nearly two weeks before finally being captured.
Police Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed Ndavambi’s arrest, stating:“The police officer Constable Prince Ndavambi has been arrested.”
However, what has shocked many is what happened immediately after his arrest. According to journalist Maynard Manyowa, posting on X (formerly Twitter):
“Unbelievable. He appeared in court shortly after being arrested. His police colleagues, who saw him beat the suspect to death, did not oppose bail. Despite him being on the run, he was released on US$300 bail.”
While some reports state the bail was US$400, critics argue that granting bail in a murder case is inappropriate. A legal expert commented:
“The magistrate’s court has no authority to grant bail for murder. The application must go to the High Court. Someone who has been on the run is unlikely to be granted bail.”
The case has sparked widespread condemnation. Civil society groups and Juruvenge’s family are demanding transparency and accountability. His body remains at Parirenyatwa Hospital, with the family refusing to proceed with burial until justice is served.
Eyewitnesses at the police station allege that other officers were present during the assault. One reportedly handed Ndavambi handcuffs, and another allegedly said:
“Your relative will leave here in a police coffin.”
As the case moves towards trial, public pressure is mounting on the authorities to deliver justice not only for Juruvenge but also to address broader issues of police misconduct.