Tension gripped Masvingo on evening after police officers, who were accompanied by dogs, allegedly beat up Masvingo Mirror Chief Photographer, Nyasha Mariga, while he was carrying out his professional duties.
Witnesses said Mariga was attacked for photographing a mshikashika driver who lay under his vehicle for more than an hour in an attempt to stop it from being impounded. In the process, police officers reportedly confiscated Mariga’s camera and cellphone, tore his shirt, and dragged him to Masvingo Central Police Station.
The heavy-handed actions sparked outrage from onlookers, who later forced the officers to retreat.
“The crowd became uncontrollable and the police had no choice but to run for their lives,” said one witness.
In the chaos, the mshikashika driver managed to speed away as people cheered, while a tow truck that had been called in was chased off after residents threatened to burn it.
A senior employee at the Masvingo Mirror condemned the police actions and demanded Mariga’s immediate release. “Nyasha has committed no crime,” she said.
“He is accredited with the Zimbabwe Media Commission and has every right to be at the scene taking pictures.”
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is yet to issue a statement on the incident. Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa was not immediately available for comment
