ZIMBABWE : Investigation why Soldiers, Police Clash

August 5, 2017

The Zimbabwe National Army and Zimbabwe Republic Police say they are conducting a comprehensive investigation into clashes between some army members and police in Harare sometime this week.

In a joint statement, the ZNA and ZRP assured Zimbabweans that they will take some action against those linked to the public melee, which left at least six policemen nursing serious injuries.

“The security forces regret the unfortunate incident that took place on 1st August 2017 in the Harare Central Business District. We want to categorically condemn that incident and assure the nation that a joint team has been set up to conduct comprehensive investigations into the matter and appropriate action will be taken against the perpetrators.

“We also want to reaffirm that as security forces we are fully united despite this incident.”

Some members of the ZNA angered by police who stopped a military vehicle using spikes went on a rampage on Tuesday and beat up police in Harare, claiming that they were disciplining them.

Reports say some members of the public cheered when soldiers took action against the police said to be notorious for using spikes to stop vehicles at will.

Soldiers once went on the rampage a couple of years ago in Harare and looted valuable property when the Zimbabwe economy nearly tanked.

The soldiers were never brought before the courts.