Crimes and Courts
Harare – The widow and family of Blessed Believe Juruvenge, who died after allegedly being tortured by a police officer at Ruwa Police Station, have filed a notice of intention to sue the Police Commissioner General and the Minister of Home Affairs for damages.
Mercy Madenyika, Juruvenge’s widow, along with her mother-in-law Elipa Jimu and sister-in-law Mellisa Manyepa, are seeking justice for his death and compensation for their suffering. Manyepa is also pursuing legal action for the physical and emotional trauma she endured at the hands of the accused officer, Constable Prince Ndavambi, who is currently facing murder charges.
The family has enlisted the help of Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) attorney Paidamoyo Saurombe, who has formally notified the authorities of their claims.
Family Left Destitute After Breadwinner’s Death
In the legal notice, Saurombe stated that Juruvenge was the sole provider for his family, working as a driver at Bakers Inn while also running a tuckshop and doing welding jobs to supplement his income. His death has left his dependents—including his pregnant widow—without financial support.
“Mellisa Manyepa experienced severe physical pain due to the assaults inflicted on her by Ndavambi, and to date, she is still experiencing pain in her legs,” Saurombe wrote.
“Furthermore, Mellisa felt greatly humiliated by the assaults.”
The family is also grappling with severe emotional distress.
“Our clients are traumatised by the sudden and callous death of their husband, son, and brother at the hands of Constable Ndavambi and are presently receiving psychological assistance,” Saurombe added.
Allegations of Brutality and Premeditated Murder
According to the legal notice, Ndavambi allegedly boasted to Manyepa that her brother “was going to be put into a coffin,” suggesting premeditation. The lawyer argued that the officer “intentionally and unlawfully caused the death” by repeatedly assaulting Juruvenge despite knowing the fatal risks.
“The death of the deceased was due to the injuries sustained from the assaults perpetrated on him by Ndavambi,” Saurombe stated.
“This was a violation of his sacrosanct right to life under Section 48 of the Constitution.”
Police Leadership Accused of Negligence
The lawsuit also holds the Officer-in-Charge at Ruwa Police Station accountable, accusing him of failing to prevent officers from using the station “as torture chambers.”
“The Officer in Charge breached his duty of care, negligently causing the death of the deceased,” Saurombe wrote.
“The assaults by Ndavambi amount to inhuman, degrading treatment and excessive use of force.”
The letter further asserts that the police service violated its constitutional obligation to protect citizens under Section 219(1)(c).
Demand for Compensation
The family is seeking damages under the State Liabilities Act and the Police Act, with the exact amount to be specified in the formal lawsuit.
“You are vicariously liable for the harm suffered by our clients because Ndavambi was acting within his duties when he committed these acts,” Saurombe warned the authorities.
As the case unfolds, the family hopes it will bring accountability and prevent further abuses by law enforcement.
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