Nyasha Mariga, Chief Photographer at the Masvingo Mirror, was reportedly assaulted and detained by police on Friday evening while covering a tense standoff near Masvingo Central. The confrontation involved a mshikashika driver who lay under his vehicle for over an hour to prevent it from being impounded.
According to reports, police officers—some accompanied by dogs,confiscated Mariga’s camera and mobile phone, tore his shirt, and took him into custody. Despite being accredited by the Zimbabwe Media Commission, Mariga was accused of interfering with police operations while documenting the scene.
The situation escalated when a crowd gathered and confronted the officers, forcing them to retreat. The mshikashika driver was eventually allowed to drive away amid cheers from the crowd. Additionally, a tow truck called to impound the vehicle was forced to withdraw after threats from the crowd to set it on fire.
Ellen Mlambo, Acting Editor of the Masvingo Mirror, condemned the police actions, emphasizing that Mariga had done nothing wrong and demanded his immediate release. She highlighted his accreditation and right to cover the event.
This incident has sparked outrage among media professionals and civil society groups, raising serious concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists in Zimbabwe. Calls have been made for a thorough investigation into the conduct of the officers involved.
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