Jane Mlambo| The President Emmerson Mnangagwa has justified the unleashing of violent militia to quell protests that broke out a few weeks ago.

In a government brief which is in the possession of the Daily News, the Mnangagwa said while they regretted the loss of life last month, the intervention of the security forces had been necessary to deal “decisively with the extreme provocation” by protesters.

“The security forces’ response was proportional to the threat posed. Unfortunately, some lives were lost, including that of a police officer, who was stoned to death.

“The provocation was extreme, and the officers had a constitutional duty to prevent further loss of lives, including their own. However, some misguided elements within the system and security forces committed excesses and the law is taking its course.