Edwin Moyo
Mvuma – A 20-year-old serial Mvuma robber was arrested by members of the public after he was caught in action near Savanna Business Centre last week and severely beaten by the mob.
It is alleged that the suspect, Tapiwa Gweru (20) of Chishuku, Mvuma was on his way home from Savannah shops in the company of his friends only identified as Ngoni and Lee. They met one Austine Mutandwa (37) and LIoyd Ndhlovu (14) both of Nyagari Mvuma, who were going in the opposite direction. Gweru and friends took turns assaulting Mutandwa with empty beer bottles and demanding cash.
Members of the public arrived at the scene to restrain them from assaulting Mutandwa. Gweru’s friends fled the scene while Mutandwa and Ndhlovu proceeded with their journey leaving Gweru behind to face mob justice.
The following morning, Gweru was found lying in a pool of blood at the scene and he was rushed to Gweru Hospital. Mutandwa also filed a report of assault.
Further findings later revealed that Gweru had several robbery and assault cases pending at the police and law courts.
Midlands Provincial Police spokesperson, Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko however, warned the public against taking the law into their own hands
“While violence is not condoned, the law has a degree of exception for actions done in defence of life and property. We advise those who are tempted to reap from other people’s possessions that they will be risking their lives. There is an old saying “One day the baboon will miss the branch”.
“We take this opportunity to appeal for information concerning the full circumstances of this incident as we seek to interview all people who were involved and ensure the appropriate ends of justice are met,” he said.
