Nkosilathi Sibanda
A MAN identified as Robert Gutsaru, a small business owner with roots in Matabeleland, was reportedly found severely injured and blindfolded along the Harare-Marondera Road after a passer-by came across him on the outskirts of Harare.
Gutsaru was allegedly barely able to speak when the pedestrian found him and took him to the police, where officers reportedly searched his pockets and recovered identification documents bearing his name.
He was subsequently taken to hospital for treatment of injuries sustained in the alleged attack.
The circumstances surrounding how he was injured remained unclear, raising questions about whether he was assaulted elsewhere before being abandoned along the road.
A police statement for verification could read: “We confirm receiving a report involving a male adult who was found injured along the Harare-Marondera Road. The man was assisted by a member of the public and taken to the police. He was later referred to hospital for medical attention. Investigations are underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident and identify those responsible.”
Investigations by this publication reportedly established that Gutsaru operated a tuckshop and was a known supporter of the opposition Movement for Democratic Change (MDC).
A fellow party member, who requested anonymity, said Gutsaru had allegedly used proceeds from his small business to support some party activities.
“He was a committed member who did what he could to support the party. Some of the money he made from his tuckshop went towards party activities. We are worried about what happened to him and want answers,” the member said.
The party member said they suspected Gutsaru could have been abducted and tortured because of his political activities, although the allegation had not been independently verified.
“We suspect that he could have been targeted because of his political activities, but we want the police to investigate and establish what really happened,” the source said.
The incident has also raised questions about claims of similar abductions and assaults in the area.
A further police statement, if confirmed, could read: “We urge members of the public to report any suspected abductions, assaults or cases of people being abandoned in isolated places. Anyone with information that may assist ongoing investigations should approach their nearest police station.”
The police would also need to confirm whether similar cases have recently been reported and whether investigators believe the incidents are connected.
Gutsaru’s condition, the precise circumstances in which he was found and the identity of those responsible remain matters requiring official confirmation.
