Gwanda Cop Jailed for Shooting Fugitive in the Back
A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer based in Gwanda, Matabeleland South, has been convicted of culpable homicide after fatally shooting a fleeing suspect wanted for assault.
Phillip Mwinde (43) appeared before the Bulawayo High Court where he was slapped with a four-year jail sentence.
However, two years were conditionally suspended for five years, meaning he will effectively serve two years behind bars unless he commits a similar offence within the suspension period.
Mwinde, accompanied by two fellow officers, had gone to the Farvic area of Collen Bawn to arrest a man accused of common assault.
Upon spotting their target walking with another man, the duo bolted as soon as they noticed the police vehicle.
Mwinde jumped out and gave chase, firing two warning shots.
When the pair continued running, he took aim and fired, striking the now-deceased in the left buttock.
The bullet exited through his right lower abdomen, causing him to collapse.
The officers rushed over and found the man bleeding heavily.
He was first taken to Gwanda Provincial Hospital and later transferred to United Bulawayo Hospitals, where he died the next day,while still admitted.
According to NewZimbabwe, the incident sparked widespread debate about the use of lethal force by law enforcement, especially in non-violent crime cases.
