The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has warned Zimbabweans against taking part in protests in Musina, South Africa, saying those who engage in the planned demonstrations will be dealt with.
In a statement posted on its social media channels on Friday, the ZRP said it had taken note of a video circulation on social media calling for Zimbabweans to converge in Musina. The statement read:
The ZRP warns the public against taking heed of a WhatsApp message being circulated showing 3 men – 1 identified as Baba “Sithole” and another as Baba Divine Mwana akatsamwa Michael and inviting the public, particularly Zimbabweans to gather and engage in unlawful activities in Musina.
The police and relevant stakeholders will ensure action is taken on all unruly elements.
It is, however, not clear how the ZRP will stop the protests in the neighbouring country since it doesn’t have jurisdiction over events in South Africa.
It has become increasingly dangerous to hold peaceful protests in Zimbabwe with police swooping down on nurses, activists, students and even individuals for holding peaceful protests.
Recently, police arrested Takudzwa Ngadziore, the leader of the Zimbabwe National Students Association (ZINASU) for holding a protest against Impala Car Rental.
Ngadziore was demanding that the company discloses the individual who hired one of its cars that were used to abduct a Midlands State University (MSU) student, Tawanda Muchehiwa in July.
Over half a dozen university students who protested Ngadziore’s arrest were also arrested by police.