Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) has reported that members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police stormed a Harare hospital and arrested 28 visibly injured person who are accused of participating in the January 14 violent protest that left at lest 12 people dead.
“It is regrettable, deplorable very inhumane for state agents to raid 28 injured people who were receiving medical treatment during early hours.” ZLHR said in a statement. “The 28 are detained at Harare Central police station.”
ZLHR further revealed that the arrested persons were denied access to their lawyers.
“Lawyers were denied access to them and they are concerned about their health and welfare.”
Meanwhile the arrest came a few hours before President Emmerson Mnangagwa issued a statement condemning the wanton crackdown on citizens by the members of the security forces following the protests.
“Violence or misconduct by our security forces is unacceptable and a betrayal of the new Zimbabwe.”Said Mnangagwa. “Chaos and insubordination will not be tolerated. Misconduct will be investigated. If required, heads will roll.”
Mnangagwa had to abandon his trip to Davos after being informed of the extent of state brutality that was happening and also after getting tipped of a palace coup that was underway.
Mnangagwa is expected to engage in a series of ZANU PF and government meeting to get formal briefing of what transpired during his absence.
Source: MbareTimescom
