THE seven Shamva police officers, who allegedly assaulted and killed a local resident accusing him of stealing $100 from a cop’s wife, yesterday appeared at the High Court before judge Justice Hlekani Mwayera charged with murder. REPORT BY CHARLES LAITON SENIOR COURT REPORTER
The officers, all remanded in custody, pleaded not guilty to the charge, denying they beat Luxmore Chivambo to death as alleged by the State.
The police officers said in their defence that Chivambo was perhaps attacked by a “stray missile” thrown by a rogue mob which was attempting to attack them for raiding shebeens in the neighbourhood.
Allegations are that on March 17 last year, Officer-In-Charge, Aspias Shumba (48) led a group of junior officers who included Mortion Jakopo (41), Simon Mafunda (32), Michael Makwalo (30), Lee Makope (23), Benedict Tapfuma (22) and Blessing Saidi (26) to Ashley Gold compound after his wife Judith had been robbed of her wallet containing $100 and a Nokia 7209 phone.
The State alleges Shumba’s wife had allegedly been robbed by unknown people who took away her phone and money, but she reported the matter to her husband who in turn mobilised his subordinates to hunt down the alleged robbers.
It is alleged Shumba and his colleagues then proceeded to the compound in a ZRP Land Rover vehicle and raided houses, including Chivambo’s.
The court heard that at the material time, the raiding party found Chivambo and his wife asleep and forced entry into the house before dragging Chivambo out.
They allegedly took turns to severely assault Chivambo with baton sticks, booted feet and clenched fists as they interrogated him.
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The assault took place in full view of Chivambo’s wife Marjory Shamhu and his cousin Willard Mapuranga, a prison officer.
Chivambo sustained serious injuries, but despite his condition the cops allegedly detained him without providing him with medical treatment. He died the following day upon being taken to hospital.
The trial continues today.
