ZRP Officer Convicted of Murder in Midlands Case

Gweru, Zimbabwe – September 16, 2024

By Dorrothy Moyo | ZimEye | Mitch Tafirenyika, a member of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), has been convicted of murder by the High Court sitting in Gweru. The officer, aged 28 at the time of the incident, was involved in a fatal shooting that occurred during a police operation at Radway Farm.

Tafirenyika, along with a team of police officers, was tasked with apprehending two armed robbery suspects, Tichaona Muzhanduki and Doubt Munsaka. The team, split into four groups, surrounded a farmhouse on the property. When the occupant of the house opened the door after police knocked and identified themselves, Tafirenyika discharged his firearm. He shot the victim multiple times in the chest and arms, killing him instantly.

The court found that the officer had acted unlawfully by using lethal force. Tafirenyika was convicted of murder and will return to court for sentencing on September 20, 2024.

The National Prosecuting Authority has emphasized the importance of accountability within the justice system, particularly in cases involving law enforcement officers.-ZimEye