The Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) has condemned an incident in which three police officers were caught on video assaulting a motorist in Budiriro during a traffic enforcement operation.
The video, which has gone viral on social media, shows the officers dragging and kicking the motorist, while a female officer repeatedly slaps him, despite his apparent lack of resistance.
On Wednesday, 29 October, the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) stated that it does not condone such behaviour and confirmed that immediate action had been taken against the officers involved.
In its statement, the ZICC said it had taken note of the widely circulated video and condemned the actions of the officers. It said:
“As a constitutional oversight body established in terms of Section 210 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe, and operationalised by the Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission Act (Chapter 10:34), the commission condemns in the strongest terms all forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by law enforcement officials.
“The commission acknowledges the public statement by the ZRP, through its national spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirming that disciplinary measures have been instituted against the implicated officers.
“While this administrative response is noted, the commission shall exercise its independent mandate to review the incident and determine whether the conduct complained of discloses any violation of human rights, abuse of power, or maladministration warranting further inquiry in accordance with Sections 12 and 13 of the ZICC Act.”
The commission stressed that professional policing must at all times be conducted within the bounds of the law, with due respect for human dignity, proportionality in the use of force and adherence to the principles of accountability and transparency.
The ZICC also urged members of the public to report any alleged misconduct by members of the security services.
Complaints can be lodged via email at complaints@zicc.org.zw or through the toll-free number 08011234.
The Commission’s primary role is to ensure accountability and provide redress for misconduct involving members of the ZRP, Zimbabwe Defence Forces (ZDF), Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), and the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Service (ZPCS).
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