Harare – Battle lines have been drawn as the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has deployed officers in the Central Business District (CBD) in anticipation of the MDC Alliance demonstrations pencilled for Friday.

Police could be seen in the major streets of Harare CBD including the Africa Unity Square where the MDC leadership is expected to address protesters.

The deployment comes after the MDC insisted on going ahead with the demonstration despite allegations of intimidation and abduction on MDC members.

“Ignore social media reports suggesting that the demonstration is off. It’s all systems go, the demonstration is part of a series of more demonstrations across the country because this is an issue to do with the people of Zimbabwe” said MDC national spokesperson Daniel Molokele

MDC activists allege that they have been abducted and tortured by unknown people.

“They have abducted our members in the middle of the night. Some have been tortured and dumped outside the city. We have one activist who was tortured and sprinkled with an unknown chemical.

“The regime is continuing with where Mugabe left, they continue to use state security agents using unmarked vehicles, what crime have we done. We are prepared to liberate ourselves from this oppressive regime” said Austin Katumba an MDC activist

Whilst the MDC has reiterated to continue with the demonstration over the deteriorating economic situation the ruling Zanu PF youths league has said it will do anything in their power to thwart any threats to the peace that is currently prevailing.

Previous demonstrations turned violent resulting in the death of innocent civilians after security details fired live ammunition on protesters.

Zimbabwe is currently facing the worst economic challenges in a decade.