NewsDay reporter Moses Matenga, who was detained by mine security on Wednesday after he was found in possession of a stone at Marange Resources diamond fields in Chiadzwa, was yesterday handed over to the Mutare Criminal Investigation Department.
The police intend to charge the journalist with illegally possessing a diamond.
Matenga was detained and subsequently arrested while covering a civil society facility tour of Marange Resources diamond fields.
His lawyer, Johannes Zviuya, last night said the police took Matenga to the Chiadzwa diamond fields for indications.
“As I speak, Matenga is with the police in Chiadzwa for indications,” Zviuya said. “They will return to Mutare and lay charges against him. The charge is that of illegal possession of a diamond. If things go well, Matenga will appear in court tomorrow for initial remand.”
Asked if Matenga was indeed found in possession of a diamond, Zviuya said: “They haven’t carried out a test on the stone he had. They may carry out the test after the initial remand.”
Matenga, the lawyer said, had no complaints against the police.
Police spokesperson Senior Asssistant Commissioner Wayne Bvudzijena confirmed Matenga’s arrest, adding investigations to establish what transpired were still underway.
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“We are still carrying out investigations as to what really happened and what type of stone it is,” Bvudzijena said.
Earlier, Alpha Media Holdings Editor-in-Chief Vincent Kahiya said:“We are perfectly aware that the diamond fields are high security areas and our editors who have been there on facilitated trips understand this.
“Therefore, prior to his departure to Marange, Matenga was thoroughly briefed by NewsDay Editor Constantine Chimakure about the security arrangements there and expected mode of behaviour.
“We are still gathering information about how Matenga came to have the stone. Mining officials at Marange Resources have been very helpful in keeping us updated.”
