CHITUNGWIZA – A group of 39 individuals suspected to be affiliated with the Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) have been apprehended for their alleged involvement in a series of politically motivated acts of violence.
The incidents, which took place in Nyatsime in June of last year, reportedly involved the burning of homes belonging to supporters of the ruling party, Zanu PF.
Among the detained individuals are Adam and Trevor Furukiya, Tashinga Chihaka, and Donald Mugondegwa.
They were arrested over the weekend in Nyatsime, Chitungwiza and subsequently appeared at the Chitungwiza Magistrates’ Court on Monday.
The suspects have been remanded in custody pending a bail hearing.
According to prosecutors Michael Reza, Malvern Mwendera, Faith Simango, and Munyaradzi Karimazondo, the group stands accused of setting fire to Zanu PF cell offices and residences of party supporters during a memorial service held in honor of the late CCC activist Moreblessing Ali.
Ali had been brutally murdered by an individual with alleged links to Zanu PF.
The state’s representatives further claim that the group engaged in physical altercations with rival individuals, using bricks as weapons.
The alleged incidents occurred on June 8 of the previous year, around 5 PM, when the activists converged on Nyatsime.
They reportedly destroyed Zanu PF cell offices, several houses, and assaulted members of the Nyatsime community using bricks, sticks, and their bare hands.
Additionally, it is alleged that the suspects seized valuables from their victims, including cash and mobile phones.
Prosecutors assert that the victims positively identified the arrested individuals as the perpetrators of the crimes.
During the bail hearing, the prosecution opposed the release of the group, citing concerns that it may hinder the pursuit of justice by complicating the process of bringing them back to face their charges.
Legal representation for the accused activists is being provided by Freddy Masarirevu, Noble Chinhano, and Marange from the Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum.
The trial is set to proceed as authorities seek to hold those responsible for the acts of violence accountable for their actions.
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