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Wynne Zanamwe, Midlands Reporter
A TRAFFIC police officer stationed at Gweru Central has appeared in court for allegedly assaulting a motorist who was demanding his licence back at a roadblock.
Constable Innocent Masimba (24) of Mkoba 10 suburb allegedly punched Mr Martin Nyikayaramba on the left ear following an argument after the driver demanded his licence back.
He appeared before Gweru Magistrate, Mr Musaiwona Shotgame, facing one count of assault.
Const Masimba pleaded not guilty and was remanded out of custody to November 21 for trial.
Prosecuting, Mr Pearson Muringani said on May 12 at around 1PM, Cst Masimba was manning a roadblock near Regina Mundi Girls’ High School.
He said Mr Nyikayaramba’s vehicle was allegedly stopped by the accused.
“The accused asked to see the complainant’s driver’s licence and he complied. The accused, while in possession of the complainant’s licence, inspected his vehicle and discovered that the driver had no reflective vest,” said Mr Muringani.
He said the police officer asked the driver to pay a $10 fine for the offence.
Mr Muringani said Mr Nyikayaramba, who was initially reluctant to pay the fine, did so after a while. “After paying the fine, the driver asked for his licence from the accused who refused denying ever taking the licence in the beginning,” he said.
Mr Muringani said the complainant reminded the cop that he had taken it earlier, but the officer was allegedly angered by the statement.
Mr Nyikayaramba then went out of the vehicle to stress his point and the accused allegedly dragged him and punched him once on the left ear. “The complainant did not sustain any visible injuries and a medical report was issued,” said Mr Muringani.
It was not clear if the motorist eventually got his licence back.
— @wynnezane
Online Reporter