Crimes and Courts
MASVINGO, ZIMBABWE – A police docket for public violence has been officially opened against Zanu PF activist Esau Mutanho and at least twelve accomplices, following the violent disruption of a book launch event in Masvingo last week.
The report was filed by Munyaradzi Savanhu, the biographer of incarcerated opposition figure Job Sikhala.
The incident occurred on August 13, 2024, during the launch of Savanhu’s book chronicling Sikhala’s life and political struggles. Eyewitnesses and victims allege that Mutanho, known locally as a Zanu PF driver, led a group of over a dozen party supporters in storming the venue.
The group is accused of using threats, intimidation, and physical force to halt the proceedings, causing chaos and fear among attendees.
This legal action comes just five days after Mutanho received a US$150,000 letter of demand from Sikhala’s lawyers, seeking compensation for damages and losses incurred due to the disruption.
“These individuals, led by Mutanho, descended on our peaceful event like a storm,” Savanhu stated after filing the report.
“Their actions were calculated, violent, and aimed solely at silencing the story of Job Sikhala. We have clear video evidence showing their faces as they threatened us, destroyed property, and assaulted attendees. Justice must prevail.”
Initial attempts to file the report with the Masvingo Central Police Station were reportedly rebuffed. Frustrated by the local police’s inaction, Savanhu, alongside Job Sikhala and Vurayayi Zembe, escalated the matter directly to Police Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba in Harare on Monday, August 18th.
This high-level intervention resulted in the formal opening of the public violence docket (CRB Masvingo Central [Number Pending] against Mutanho and his alleged accomplices.
“The refusal by Masvingo police to initially take our report was deeply concerning and indicative of a pattern of impunity enjoyed by certain individuals,” Savanhu added.
“We had no choice but to seek the intervention of the Commissioner General to ensure the rule of law is upheld.”
Police at Masvingo Central have confirmed the docket is active and state they are now searching for the suspects, whose identities are reportedly clearly visible in video footage captured during the incident. Mutanho and the twelve other named individuals are currently wanted for questioning.
Job Sikhala emphasized the significance of the legal challenge:
“This is not just about one book launch. This is about the systematic use of violence and intimidation to suppress dissent and freedom of expression in Zimbabwe. Holding Mutanho and his gang accountable is a crucial step towards ending this culture of lawlessness.”
Zim GBC News will continue to follow this developing story.
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