adminNomusa Mdukuzi Chronicle Reporter
TWO police constables from Mzilikazi Police Station had to run for their dear lives when they were attacked by two suspects they wanted to arrest in Bulawayo’s Makokoba suburb, police confirmed yesterday. The incident that attracted the attention of members of the public, who were treated to a free movie, happened on New Year’s Day.
Constable Emmanuel Mashindi, 25, who resides at Ross Camp Police Quarters but is stationed at Mzilikazi Police Station and Constable Madombi, approached the house of Nqobizitha Siziba, 31, and his younger brother Reason, 22, along 10th Street in the city’s oldest suburb intending to arrest the former who had reportedly stolen a laptop.
The laptop belonged to Takunda Hove from the same suburb. Witnesses said the two police officers were accompanied by Hove who led them to Siziba’s residence.
“The police officers came to arrest Nqobizitha and Reason. They were wearing civilian clothes and all of a sudden we saw them fighting,” said a witness who preferred anonymity.
The two officers, according to witnesses, had identified themselves by producing identity cards which they showed to the Siziba brothers.
When Const Mashindi attempted to handcuff Nqobizitha, witnesses said, it is alleged that Reason stepped in and blocked him, telling the officers that they should not arrest his brother.
“Reason slapped one of the police officers on the face and his brother joined in and the two started assaulting the officers. They pelted the officers with stones. Nqobizitha hit one of the officers with a stone while Reason held him. The officers eventually retreated and ran for cover,” said another witness.
Const Mashindi reportedly fell down as he tried to escape but managed to pick himself up with the brothers in hot pursuit. The two officers reportedly phoned their station commander for reinforcement and later managed to arrest the two suspects with the aid of other police officers.
Const Mashindi sustained a deep cut on the head. Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Mandlenkosi Moyo said: “I confirm that we received a report of two suspects who assaulted police officers. We condemn such behaviour by people who challenge law enforcers and resist arrest.
“Anyone found on the wrong side of the law will be dealt with accordingly. We arrested the two suspects and they will face justice.”
Online Reporter