Crimes and Courts
Residents of Malalume village in Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, say they were gripped by fear after a police officer accused of murder briefly returned to duty before being suspended again pending his court case.
Constable Blessed Moyo, who was stationed at the Malalume police base, was arrested in May 2025 after the remains of a man he had detained were discovered in a pit latrine behind the local clinic, which also housed the police base. The grisly discovery included a skull, bones, torn clothes, a bloodied knife, and handcuffs.
After being granted bail, the officer’s return to uniformed duty caused deep anxiety within the community.
“We could not sleep peacefully knowing he was walking around in uniform again. People were whispering in the village because no one felt safe,” one resident told Zim GBC News.
Another villager said the return eroded trust in local law enforcement.
“When we saw him back on duty, we felt like the case no longer mattered. Everyone was scared to even pass by the police base,” the resident said.
“We used to run to the police when we had problems, but when he came back, people stopped reporting cases. How do you report to someone you are afraid of?”
According to witnesses, the victim, who had been accused of stealing food and clothes, was severely assaulted while in Constable Moyo’s custody. His health reportedly deteriorated, and he was never seen alive again. Months later, his remains were found buried.
Following community outcry, villagers confirm that Constable Moyo has been suspended again awaiting a court hearing.
Bulilima District councillor, Ephraim Moyo, confirmed the issue was raised at a community meeting.
“His return to duty greatly affected residents, but now we are being told that he has been suspended,” he said.
When contacted for comment, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated that the force is awaiting judicial proceedings.
“The case is now before the court so we are waiting for the court proceedings. At the moment we cannot give a comment on the case because we do not want to interfere with court proceedings,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
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