By Patience Rashai

Zimbabweans have applauded the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) for initiating investigations and ultimate arrest on the rogue policeman (Constable Makumire) who over the past week had caused menace over social media for assaulting a suspect in a video clip by Sky News.

Political analyst Conwell Muzhunje highlighted that such a move restored confidence from the public in their security agents as the general perception was that the assault was probably sanctioned.

“The move by ZRP dispels rumours circulating on the international scene that Government was inflicting pain on its subjects. It’s nothing new to have overzealous members of the security force acting on their own accord, deviating from their professional duties and this is one such an unfortunate incident,” said Muzhunje.

At the same time, social media was awash with praise over the manhandling of this culprit.

“When such ills are ignored, it removes confidence in the system as the public won’t feel guaranteed of protection from those who are supposed to protect them. As such arresting him at least deters his counterparts from such behaviour,” lashed Yvonne Ngara.

“Thank you for arresting this guy, though late, I guess it’s better late than never. Government should continue weeding out these people, vakawanda vanodai,” says Tafie Wamambo

“Police have for long ill-treated people but there was nowhere to turn to especially without evidence. One actually dreads to report their case in a police station for fear of harassment. I implore others out there with more evidence to come forth,” says Tau Makamure.

Speaking on the same issue in the capital this Tuesday, police spokesperson, Commissioner  Charity Charamba assured the public that ZRP would delve into any reports of abuse of power by police officers and continue urging members of the public to come forth to report such similar ordeals to their respective police stations.