FULL TEXT: Zimbabwe police Issues Statement On 16 August Crackdown: 'Protestors Disrupted Traffic & Intimidated Others'

PRESS STATEMENT

16 AUGUST 2019

POLICE UPDATE ON THE SECURITY SITUATION IN ZIMBABWE

The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the nation that following the issuance of a prohibition notice by the Regulating Authority for Harare Central District, the MDC Alliance filed an urgent chamber application with the High Court. The High Court ruled against the holding of the demonstrations but the MDC Alliance activists went on to gather at Africa Unity Square and other parts of Harare Central Business District, in defiance of the court ruling.

Some of the youths went on to engage in confrontational acts which include threats, intimidation and disruption of the smooth flow of traffic in the Central Business District. The police moved in and dispersed the unlawful gatherings, in the process 91 people were arrested for various offences in Chitungwiza, Harare Central Business District and Harare South.

We have also noted with concern falsehoods by some online publications that the police shot into the crowds and killed two people, which is false. No live rounds were used by the police. No one was shot or injured by police through firearms.

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The police is firm on the ground to ensure that law and order is maintained. We are appealing to members of the public to remain calm and peaceful. They should continue to conduct day to day activities in a peaceful manner.

We want to assure all citizens that the police stand ready to protect Zimbabweans and visitors in line with its constitutional responsibility. Let us be responsible and shun acts of violence, destruction, looting of property and disturbing business operations in the country.

(NYATHI.P) Assistant Commissioner Senior Staff Officer [Press, Public and International Relations] To the Commissioner General of Police Police General Headquarters