By Chantelle Muzanenhamo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has called for the responsible use of social media, addressing the increasing abuse and misuse of these platforms by both police officers and the public. This response comes in the wake of a viral video that has sparked widespread concern over allegations of police misconduct in Mutare.
In a statement, the ZRP expressed its dismay over instances where false narratives are propagated to further personal agendas, leading to public misinformation.
The statement emphasized the need for accountability, noting that thorough investigations would be launched into these incidents, and that those found culpable would face legal repercussions without bias.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police will thus ensure that comprehensive investigations are conducted and the truth revealed to the public. In the process, the law will be applied to the offending parties without fear or favour” said the statement
Particularly troubling for the police department was a video circulating online that purportedly shows two police officers involved in a physical altercation over alleged bribe money.
In their clarification, the ZRP provided context to the incident, detailing the events surrounding Constable Foreman Matayaya’s involvement in a road traffic accident on Sunday.
According to ZRP, Constable Matayaya was involved in a collision that affected three vehicles in the Dangamvura area. After the accident, Constable Andrew Mazhindu responded to the scene and requested that all parties drive their vehicles to the nearest police station for documentation. However, Matayaya reportedly refused to comply with this directive.
As the situation escalated, ZRP reports that Matayaya became aggressive during the escort to the station, confronting and assaulting Constable Mazhindu.
He allegedly resisted the recording of the accident and attempted to obstruct police work by damaging property and raising unfounded allegations against his fellow officer. Intervention from Sergeant Musonza and Constable Mataringe was necessary to prevent further damage and violence.
Constable Matayaya was subsequently arrested, with the ZRP affirming its commitment to allowing the law to take its course in handling the incident.
The police underscored the importance of distinguishing factual accounts from sensationalized social media posts, calling for responsible engagement from both officers and citizens.