By Victor Fanuel
Harare — A rogue police officer, assistant inspector Simbarashe Mandizvidza, has been arrested after two viral videos sparked chaos on social media.
In the footage, Mandizvidza claimed he was now in charge of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) and issued a 48-hour ultimatum for all Chinese nationals to leave Zimbabwe.
Mandizvidza allegedly stole a police Ford Ranger from ZRP Headquarters in Harare.
He then ordered all stations in Mashonaland East to mount roadblocks not to intercept him and the vehicle.
In the videos, he warned that attempts to arrest him could lead to conflict.
“No one is going to beaten, and people will be able to travel safely.”
“If you really love your country, support me,” said Mandizvidza.
However, an August 13 internal police memo to all stations in Mashonaland East, seen by NewsHour, urged police officers to mount roadblocks and intercept Mandizvidza and the vehicle, a Ford Ranger.
“May all stations in Mazowe district be on the lookout for ZRP Ford Ranger Reg 033 with police colours being driven by Assistant Inspector Mandizvidza,” the memo from the Mazowe district police chief said.
“The vehicle is stolen at PGHQ (Police General Headquarters) by A/Insp Mandizvidza and is believed to be in Mashonaland Central province.
“Stations to mount roadblocks and patrols to be on the lookout for the stolen vehicle.
If located arrest and detain for CID Bindura,” further read the memo.
National police spokesperson commissioner Paul Nyathi, in a Thursday statement condemned Mandizvidza’s actions he described as “treasonous” and
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police categorically disassociates itself from the treasonous social media videos and statements issued by a rogue policeman.
“The errant member has been arrested and is now facing both disciplinary charges under the Police Act (Chapter 11:10) and criminal proceedings.
“The Commissioner-General assures the public that the ZRP will continue serving Zimbabwe and its leadership in line with the constitutional mandate,” said Nyathi.
Mandizvidza remains in custody as investigations continue.
