Police Officer Accused Of Burning Chihuri's House Remanded In Custody

Hardlife Maukazuva (27), who is accused of burning former Zimbabwe Republic Police commissioner-general Augustine Chihuri’s house before exchanging fire with soldiers was on Thursday remanded in custody to January 16.

He made his first appearance at the Harare Magistrates’ Court in December, facing charges of unlawful entry into Chihuri’s property in aggravating circumstances, malicious damage to property and attempted murder. The State alleges that on December 6, 2017 Maukazuva assumed his shift from one constable Mabaso and Gwatiringa who had just finished their night duties and was given an AK rifle with a magazine of 30 rounds, among other things.

The State alleges that he went on to force open a closed window to gain entry into Chihuri’s house and stole goods were worth $2 000. Maukazuva escaped through the window and was spotted by Chihuri’s gardener, Robson Mubaiwa, after he had hidden his loot in the yard. Mubaiwa tried to raise alarm and appeal for help from neighbours, without success. When other officers who guard Chihuri’s residence tried to disarm and arrest Maukazuva he is said to have become violent, striking constable Kudakwashe Jekemu on the back using his service AK rifle.