Harare, Zimbabwe– The Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has declared its intention to take legal action against the police, accusing them of severely beating one of their members, Mr Ronald Hondongwe, a disabled teacher.
Mr Robson Chere, the General Secretary of ARTUZ, revealed in an interview with the media that the union plans to sue the police for the injuries Mr Hondongwe sustained while in custody, once he is released from prison. Mr Hondongwe suffers from a crippled arm and leg, exacerbating concerns about his treatment while detained.
Mr Hondongwe was among 79 members of the opposition party, Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC), who were arrested in Harare on Sunday, coinciding with the International Day of the African Child. The arrests took place at the residence of the party leader, Mr Jameson Timba, who was also detained.
Witnesses report that 20 individuals were injured after allegedly being beaten by the police. Some of the injured have already been admitted to Parirenyatwa Hospital for treatment. The incident has drawn significant attention and criticism from various quarters.
In response to the allegations, police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated that those with complaints should report to the office of the Police Chief or Commissioner-General Mr Godwin Matanga, rather than resorting to public platforms to air their grievances.
The actions of the Zimbabwean police have been condemned by human rights organisations, including Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International. These groups accuse the police of routinely violating citizens' rights, particularly targeting those who oppose the government.
This incident has heightened concerns about the state of human rights and the rule of law in Zimbabwe, drawing international scrutiny and calls for accountability from the authorities.
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