-arrested for assaulting boss at block
A police officer has been arrested after allegedly assaulting his superior during a night-time roadblock operation along the Harare-Masvingo Highway on 10 May 2025.
According to a police memo, Constable James Chikuvire (38), stationed at ZRP Charandura, is accused of attacking Sergeant Biggie Shoko (48) during a deployment at the 222km peg in Vungu.
Chikuvire is facing charges under Section 89 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].
A memo from the Officer Commanding Midlands Province states that Chikuvire had failed to report for duty at the station and later turned up at the roadblock site in civilian clothes and under the influence of alcohol, reads the memo.
The accused was not at the station when the team was briefed for deployment. He only appeared when the roadblock team was at Chaka Business Center in civilian attire.
Complainant observed that accused was drunk and could not be part of the roadblock team.
When Sgt Shoko told Chikuvire to return to the station, the constable allegedly became aggressive, insisting he should remain on duty. The disruption prompted Assistant Inspector Songozo to call off the roadblock.
Although the team later resumed operations, Chikuvire returned to the scene, still intoxicated and carrying alcohol.
Chikuvire came back holding a quart of Black Label beer and dressed in civilian attire. He went straight onto the middle of the road and started stopping traffic with the right hand while the left hand was holding beer bottle.
Sgt Shoko tried to remove Chikuvire from the roadside, fearing he might be struck by passing vehicles.
Chikuvire allegedly became violent, slapping Shoko twice and head butting him on the left side of the head. He missed a second head butt and fell, hitting his mouth on the tarmac.
He reportedly tried to continue the assault but was restrained by fellow officers, including Sgt Kusereka and Constables Kanjera and Mugari.
Sgt Kusereka called for backup, and Community Liaison Committee member Dennis Muzunze helped detain Chikuvire. He was arrested and held under DB 55/25 at ZRP Charandura.
Chikuvire is expected to appear in court at the Mvuma Magistrates Court soon. Sgt Shoko was treated at St. Theresa Hospital and is in stable condition.
