A Zimbabwe police officer went to jail for beating up a teacher during an investigation. Owen Manjengwa, 40, hit the teacher with his hands and a baton, causing internal injuries. The attack happened on February 21 at Mhlanguledzi Primary School when Manjengwa came to arrest the teacher for an alleged break-in. When the teacher denied involvement, Manjengwa struck him repeatedly.
The Chikombedzi court ordered Manjengwa to pay $200 or serve 90 days behind bars. He also received a four-month sentence, suspended for five years if he stays out of trouble. The National Prosecuting Authority urged citizens to settle disagreements peacefully instead of using violence. This case highlights ongoing issues with police conduct in Zimbabwe.
According to recent surveys, most Zimbabweans distrust their police force. Just 36 percent of citizens trust officers, a 2023 study found. Many people believe police act unprofessionally or misuse their power during their duties.
The Chikombedzi court ordered Manjengwa to pay $200 or serve 90 days behind bars. He also received a four-month sentence, suspended for five years if he stays out of trouble. The National Prosecuting Authority urged citizens to settle disagreements peacefully instead of using violence. This case highlights ongoing issues with police conduct in Zimbabwe.
According to recent surveys, most Zimbabweans distrust their police force. Just 36 percent of citizens trust officers, a 2023 study found. Many people believe police act unprofessionally or misuse their power during their duties.