adminZvikomborero Parafini
THE State yesterday successfully applied for a warrant to further detain monster ex-fugitive, Jaison Muvhevhi, who was arrested trying to cross into Mozambique on Monday.
The gun-toting ex-cop had been on the run for three days after shooting to death a top cop, apostolic sect Madzibaba and a barman in Wedza on Friday.
Muvhevhi appeared before Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi.
The State led by Pardon Dziva successfully applied for police to be granted more than 48 hours to detain Muvhevhi.
The gold dealer is said to have gone on a shooting spree on Friday, leaving three people dead in his wake.
Another police officer injured in the shooting is currently battling for his life in hospital.
Investigating officer, Pikisai Chipwazo, took to the witness stand in support of the application to further detain Muvhevhi.
“I confirm that it is an accused person’s right to be brought before a court within 48 hours and that right can only be ordered by the court.
“Accused was arrested in Mozambique and was deported to Zimbabwe on Tuesday at around midday and rearrested at the border.
“I need time to interview the accused so that he can give his side of the story and to take him to Wedza where he is supposed to make some indications.
“I undertake to bring him to court as soon as I am done,” he said.
Muvhevhi’s lawyer quizzed the investigating officer why they didn’t record statements when he arrived on Tuesday night.
He told the court that they had reservations with the procedure the State intended to take.
“We are worried that the State is trying to solicit for confessions from the accused and it is surprising that the State is saying that they can only craft the charge after the indications hence our question would be why arrest him in the first place.
“This scenario is precisely for the reason that there’s a Form 242 mechanism that allows them to place him on remand, especially after interviewing the accused person as well as interviewing possible State witnesses and viewing the scene.
“This process doesn’t warrant further detention of the accused in police custody. The investigating officer said he needs a day to compile Form 242.
“I would move that Form 242 be crafted in a day and he be brought for placement on remand and placed in the custody of the ZPCS and when they need him for any other interview or indications, that would be done by requesting him from the prisons officials,” said the lawyer.
Online Reporter