THE assault case of Chief Chivero (Brown Shopo) at Sunny Yi Feng tile manufacturing plant in Norton this week, has taken a new twist with the Chinese firm counter-accusing the traditional leader of beating up its security guard.

Chief Chivero on Monday made a report at Norton Police Station accusing Sunny Yi Feng employee Qiao Shuang Long of assault.

Chief Chivero claims his arm was injured in the scuffle that occurred at the plant’s main entrance.

Police have since arrested Qiao.

It has since emerged that there are serious allegations of some powerful interests demanding a reported US$16 000 bribe from the company with a politician and lawmaker (name withheld) being at the centre of the scandal.

Yesterday, Sunny Yi Feng assistant manager Mr Gong Wei Lin addressed a Press conference and laid the blame on Chief Chivero.

“On Monday around 11am, the chief came here with a list of 70 people he wanted us to employ. While at the gate, our security guard Qiao asked him to write down his name and contact details for security reasons which he resisted.

“Qiao tried to stop him from entering, but the chief turned violent and slapped him while many people watched,” said Mr Gong.

Chief Chivero reportedly sustained a twisted arm after being beaten up by the Chinese national.

He said he had welcomed the Chinese into his area, but they were allegedly now abusing ordinary citizens.

Employees at the tile plant stated that Qiao was the first to approach the police with an assault report, but Chief Chivero’s complaint which came through the phone, was prioritised.

The commissioning of the massive plant is expected anytime soon following the completion of construction and installation of machinery.