FAITH NDOU
GWOKE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest and conviction of four men linked to a kidnapping incident that occurred on 31 March 2026 in Gokwe North.
The convicted, identified as Isheunesu Benjamin Marima (30), Collin Masawi (44), Wonder Gamba (43) and Edwin Chinongwa (32) were each sentenced to seven years in prison by Gokwe Regional Magistrate Stanford Mambanje.
The incident involved the forcible abduction of a police officer who was on duty at a public hearing for Constitutional Amendment Bill No. 3 in Nembidziya, Gokwe.
According to CID HQ provincial spokesperson, Detective Inspector Rachael Mutemeri, Marima approached the officer claiming to be security personnel and requested a private discussion outside the venue. Once outside, he and his accomplices bundled the officer into a vehicle and drove to a secluded area in Maselukwe, where they took turns assaulting the complainant. The victim was later dumped near Mutora Business Centre before the suspects fled.
Police investigations led to the recovery of a Toyota Hilux (Registration Number AGE 0792) and a Ford Ranger (Registration Number AGE 5681), both used in the crime.
The four accused appeared before Mambanje and were convicted, with each sentenced to seven years.
Maluern Nzombe appeared for the state.
The ZRP is now appealing to the public to assist in locating two outstanding suspects, Erickson Mafuratidze and Mujudha [NFPK]. Anyone with information is urged to contact the National Complaints Desk on 0242 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800 197, or report to the nearest police station.
Muteweri warned the public against kidnapping, assault and any acts of violence, emphasizing that offenders will face the full wrath of the law.
“Members of the public are encouraged to resolve disputes peacefully and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and security in the country,” she said.
