adminLicence Inspectorate, were yesterday acquitted.
Magistrate Ms Gamuchirai Siwardi cleared John Zinyakatira (35), Moses Mutemachimwe (46), Amos Murodzi (35), Cralos Gusha (33), Rangarirai Nhangatira (33), Sithengisiwe Nyamadzawo (23), Christopher Mabhiza (27) of the charges at the close of the State case due to lack of incriminating evidence.
Ms Siwardi said the State had failed to prove its case beyond any reasonable doubt.
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There were inconsistencies in witness’ statements. The State could not determine who did what since there were many accused persons and some of them were not even arrested,” she said.
The State was alleging that on June 23 this year at around 5pm, the accused connived with other disabled and able-bodied street vendors and went to the Harare Licence Inspectorate. At the reception, it was alleged, the gang turned the table, which was being used by Constable Mhako upside down, demanding to see the officer in charge.
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Assistant Inspector Kadonhera was called to address the group, which was in a violent mood, it was alleged.
It was alleged that Asst Insp Kadonhera drew closer to the group to inquire the purpose of their visit. The group told him that they wanted to collect their goods, which had been confiscated by the police.
The State further alleged that the group leader said they had not come for negotiations but wanted to get their wares.
It was alleged the group leader ordered the vendors to enter the offices and beat up anyone they come across.
Asst Inspector Kadonhera ordered officers to lock up the main entrance to the offices but the group overpowered the policemen and forced their way in.
One of the blind men, it was alleged, grabbed Asst Inpector Kadonhera and hit him on the head with an iron bar and he sustained a deep cut above the left eye.
Asst Insp Kadonhera tried to handcuff him but was bitten on the left hand.
The State had further alleged that the blind man allegedly called on his colleagues to assist him and some policemen heard Asst Insp Kadonhera’s screams and they rushed to assist their colleague. The policeman was rushed to hospital for treatment.
The group, however, tried to escape from the pursuing policemen before they allegedly shattered the windscreen of a vehicle parked outside the building, the State had alleged.
The State had also alleged that the police officers failed to arrest the gang before calling for reinforcements leading to the arrest of five members of the group at the offices.
The rest of the group was arrested in the Harare Gardens, it was alleged.
Online Reporter