Crime and Court Reporter
Two foreign tourists, Lucas Slavik from the Czech Republic and Tom Ssekamwa from Uganda, have been arrested in Masvingo, Zimbabwe, on separate charges.
Slavik is accused of spreading falsehoods after recording a video claiming that Zimbabwe is experiencing water and electricity shortages, as well as high prices due to economic hardship.
“He started recording a video of the scene also narrating that Zimbabwe is experiencing continued water and electricity shortages,” said the State.
Ssekamwa, on the other hand, was charged with possessing pornographic material after a sex toy was found in his bag.
Their lawyer, Knowledge Mabvure, argued that the Act pertaining to falsehoods is no longer part of Zimbabwe’s statute books. He also highlighted the irony of the situation.
“Even within the same court building where his clients were taken, there were power cuts at the time. If it would be a falsehood if one were to claim that there is no electricity supply in court.”
Mabvure added, “Masvingo has, in fact, had no water for a number of days and no electricity for up to 12 hours every single day.”
The two were remanded in custody until Monday, with Magistrate Madzingo presiding over the case.
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