Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
TWO plain-clothed City of Harare Municipal Police traffic officers were on Tuesday kidnapped by a mushikashika driver in the Central Business District.
Tafadzwa Mavurume and Farai Manyakara were allegedly kidnapped by David Makusi, 44, of Chitungwiza, at around 0730hrs at the corner of Julius Nyerere Way and Robson Manyika Avenue.
David has since filed a counter report against Tafadzwa and Farai, claiming they assaulted him after they had sought reinforcement from their colleagues.
Harare provincial police spokesperson Inspector Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the case.
“Police arrested a driver in connection with kidnapping,” said Insp Chakanza.
“Circumstances were that the complainants were on duty, and not in uniform, enforcing traffic regulations in pursuit of the ongoing operation code named ‘NO TO MUSHIKASHIKA.’
“At that juncture they saw a motor vehicle, NV350, bearing registration (AGZ-3296), picking up passengers at an undesignated place.
“The complainants then got into the accused’s motor vehicle and informed him that he was under arrest for picking passengers at an undesignated place.
“They ordered him to drive his motor vehicle to the City of Harare Central Stores.
“The accused person then diverted the route to Mbare threatening to assault the complainants.
“One of the complainants then called for reinforcement while the other one got hold of the hand brake and managed to stop the motor vehicle.
“Harare City Council reaction group timely intervened resulting in the arrest of the accused.
“The accused was then escorted to Harare Central Police station where a report of kidnapping was filed while his vehicle was impounded and towed to Harare Central Stores.
“However, the accused also went on to make a counter report of assault against the arresting details.
“Investigations are continuing,” said Insp Chakanza.
derick.khumalo