By Simba Chikanza | A suspected soldier and several armed robbers pounced on a Beitbridge bound Boundary bus last night.

The development was confirmed by local papers, MasvingoMirror and TellZim who revealed the victims are currently hospitalized at Masvingo General Hospital.

While a comment from the local police was awaited at the time of writing, a source cited by ZimEye at the time narrated her ordeal in the following words:

Good morning to you God’s people. I’ve encountered a problem: I came from Bindura last night, and got to Mbudzi at just after 8pm.

I boarded the bus called Boundary from Mbudzi traveling back to Beitbridge. This bus’ operators announced they are going for recess at Mvuma. When they got to Mvuma people got their foods and so forth. After that, while we were inside the bus as we were approaching the tollgate, it emerged there were several armed robbers on the bus, numbering up to 6. They had guns and they had knives; and they redirected the bus into the nearby bush. They kept going to the driver ordering him to turn this way and that way. They were ordering the driver to follow a certain soldier. The bus had traveled a bit into the forest when it was ordered to switch off its lights.

At that point, everyone was searched. We were beaten up. We got sprayed on, on our eyes. We got sprayed from around 1pm. Up to now it is after 2 and our eyes are still itching badly having been sprayed on. Up to now we are still feeling the pain, since others were stabbed.

The armed men were pointing a gun at anyone forcing them to release money.

After that they repeated their search. If you say you don’t have money you will be punished with beatings. It was so difficult today on the 21st June. And these men it seems they began began their plot back in Mbudzi in Harare, where they also got into this bus.

They were also being followed by a small car behind us. When we had turned into the bush, the car that was following us from behind then followed on, it parked outside and these people began searching us. After they began searching they punctured one of the tyres and quickly left.

We then traveled out of the bush. We got up to the tollgate. After leaving the tollgate, 5 km between there and Masvingo, that’s when the bus started moving on its rim; and the driver tried to control the bus. It was now traveling on its rim. Right now we are here where the breakdown happened. We rang the police station; they haven’t responded. There are people here who are bleeding who are still to be checked.

By A correspondent- the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) has failed to account for the use of money exceeding US$400 million, while also failing to properly account for 352 583.11 carats of diamonds worth about US$146.3 million which were in stock, raising the possibility that they could have been stolen.

In her 2019 report on state enterprises, Auditor-General Mildred Chiri said she doubted the company’s ability to continue operating due to losses while questioning some of the investments of the company.

The Auditor-General is worried that ZCDC may not be able to recover money it invested in companies that have since folded.

Diamond revenue has been a contentious issue with the late former president Robert Mugabe once claiming that revenue of up to US$15 billion had been stolen. Although the figure was largely doubted, it was seen as confirmation that indeed there was looting in the diamond mining sector.

Chiri said ZCDC was failing to conduct a stock count of the diamonds at the sort house, risking possible pilferage of inventories, which may go undetected.

“There was no evidence of a documented formal process of reconciling physical stock counted to theoretical stock. For instance, the following anomalies were noted in respect of diamond stocks which then necessitated post year-end adjustments to the financial statements which had been presented for audit,” Chiri said.

“In 2019, 297 660.41 carats of diamond stock held at MMCZ (Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe) was not counted at the time of the stock count. These parcels were packed for customers and held at MMCZ. However, at year-end, during the stock count, these stocks were not included in closing inventories; and in 2018, 41 699.85 carats of diamond stocks held at MMCZ were excluded from the stock count. It was assumed at the time that these stocks had been sold to customers.

“An additional 13 222.85 carats were excluded from the final stock sheet in error.”

The Auditor-General also noted that at the time of the audit in April 2020, there had been a sale of diamonds to a local customer in September 2019, which has not been paid for or collected, eight months after the sale. She said this was in breach of tender rules which state that a customer should pay for their parcels within three days of winning a tender.

Chiri expressed concern that “possible pilferage of inventories may occur and go undetected.”

She also said material variances between physical stock and theoretical stock may go undetected. The audit was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance exceeding US$300 million on the company’s statement of financial position.

“I was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance of $304 258 953 on the company’s statement of financial position. Some of the amounts are owed by companies that have since closed down whilst ZMDC has not acknowledged the amount due. Management failed to provide persuasive audit evidence on how and when these amounts would be recovered. Consequently, I was unable to determine whether any adjustments to the above-stated amounts were necessary,” she said.

“I was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance of $24 347 454 on the Company’s statement of financial position. The amounts are owed by companies that have since closed down. Management has failed to provide us with persuasive audit evidence on how and when these amounts would be recovered.”

Chiri said she could also not verify the valuation of the investment of US$20 295 856 and US$178 799 841 into DTZ- OZGEO Limited as the company failed to enable the office of the Auditor-General to assess the fair valuation.

In addition, the ZCDC management also failed to provide the Auditor-General with an impairment assessment for the investment in the subsidiary.

“Consequently, I was unable to determine whether any adjustments to the above-stated amounts were necessary,” Chiri said.

“I was not able to verify the valuation of accruals with a balance of $51 613 628 (US$51.6 million) and trade creditors with a debit balance of $82 686 279 (US$82.7 million) and the rights and obligations of the company thereon. Delays in the recording of invoices into individual supplier accounts meant that as at the time of our report, management had not provided me with sufficient and appropriate evidence to support these amounts.”

On the governance issues, Chiri noted that the mining company did not have independent directors as all board members in the interim had interests in other related parties.

The company also had some goods worth US$352 068 which were long paid for but not yet received, indicating possible deficiencies in the company’s supplier selection or capacity of selected suppliers to fulfil contractual obligations, according to Chiri.

Five carats of diamonds worth US$2 075 belonging to a producer also went missing at the MMCZ during a weight verification exercise.

“In addition, the CCTV video footages could not be retrieved as there was an internal control system failure,” the Auditor-General said.

The ZCDC paid board fees and allowances that were above the approved rates during the year under review, according to Chiri.

Msasa Park was left awestruck yesterday when a mother, her two-year-old daughter and their domestic helper, died in an inferno in the early house of yesterday morning.

The fire is said to have been caused by an unattended candle that was left on as the family went to bed. Three other children who were inside the house survived when they were rescued by an alert neighbourhood watch team that heard the screams.

They were rushed to Parirenyatwa Group of Hospitals where they have since been discharged.

Police said in a statement, the fire started when the family retired to bed after placing a lit candle on a plastic cup following a power cut.

“On 19 June 2021, a Harare woman (34), her daughter (2) and a maid died in a fire incident at their house in Msasa Park at midnight.

“The woman’s three children, comprising two boys and a girl aged 10, 6 and 7 respectively, escaped death by a whisker through the help of local security personnel and a passer-by.

“Initial investigations revealed that the fire started from a candle which was lit and placed on a plastic cup, following a power cut, before the family went to bed.”

When The Sunday Mail crew visited the scene yesterday, it gathered that the candle was in one of the children’s bedrooms before setting the entire house ablaze.

The deceased woman’s husband was in a state of shock and refused to speak to The Sunday Mail, referring all questions to his wife’s brother Kudakwashe Kutesera. The husband, believed to be working in Beitbridge, arrived yesterday on news that some members of his family had perished in the fire. Kutesera said the children went to bed before putting the candle out.

“From what we have gathered, the candle was placed on a plastic cup and we believe that is when the fire started,” he said.

“The fire started from the children’s bedroom before it spread throughout the house. Unfortunately, the mother died in the bathroom as she was trying to douse the fire with water, but was overwhelmed by flames and smoke.”

He said the woman had asked all the children to remain in their bedroom while she attempted to put out the blaze.

“Only two bedrooms were burnt as well as the bathroom and toilet and those who were in the other bedroom survived.

“While I am not sure where the maid was, the children were shouting through the window for help from the other bedroom only to be helped by the neighbourhood watch security,” narrated Kutesera.

He said the survivors and the maid, who had started working for the family only three days ago, were pulled out through a window.

“We suspect that the maid had inhaled a lot of smoke and unfortunately she died after being pulled outside.”

Msasa Park community was in a state of shock yesterday as news of the inferno spread. Neighbours were seen milling around the house as they sought to come to terms with what had transpired.

-State media

By A correspondent- the Zimbabwe Consolidated Diamond Company (ZCDC) has failed to account for the use of money exceeding US$400 million, while also failing to properly account for 352 583.11 carats of diamonds worth about US$146.3 million which were in stock, raising the possibility that they could have been stolen.

In her 2019 report on state enterprises, Auditor-General Mildred Chiri said she doubted the company’s ability to continue operating due to losses while questioning some of the investments of the company.

The Auditor-General is worried that ZCDC may not be able to recover money it invested in companies that have since folded.

Diamond revenue has been a contentious issue with the late former president Robert Mugabe once claiming that revenue of up to US$15 billion had been stolen. Although the figure was largely doubted, it was seen as confirmation that indeed there was looting in the diamond mining sector.

Chiri said ZCDC was failing to conduct a stock count of the diamonds at the sort house, risking possible pilferage of inventories, which may go undetected.

“There was no evidence of a documented formal process of reconciling physical stock counted to theoretical stock. For instance, the following anomalies were noted in respect of diamond stocks which then necessitated post year-end adjustments to the financial statements which had been presented for audit,” Chiri said.

“In 2019, 297 660.41 carats of diamond stock held at MMCZ (Minerals Marketing Corporation of Zimbabwe) was not counted at the time of the stock count. These parcels were packed for customers and held at MMCZ. However, at year-end, during the stock count, these stocks were not included in closing inventories; and in 2018, 41 699.85 carats of diamond stocks held at MMCZ were excluded from the stock count. It was assumed at the time that these stocks had been sold to customers.

“An additional 13 222.85 carats were excluded from the final stock sheet in error.”

The Auditor-General also noted that at the time of the audit in April 2020, there had been a sale of diamonds to a local customer in September 2019, which has not been paid for or collected, eight months after the sale. She said this was in breach of tender rules which state that a customer should pay for their parcels within three days of winning a tender.

Chiri expressed concern that “possible pilferage of inventories may occur and go undetected.”

She also said material variances between physical stock and theoretical stock may go undetected. The audit was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance exceeding US$300 million on the company’s statement of financial position.

“I was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance of $304 258 953 on the company’s statement of financial position. Some of the amounts are owed by companies that have since closed down whilst ZMDC has not acknowledged the amount due. Management failed to provide persuasive audit evidence on how and when these amounts would be recovered. Consequently, I was unable to determine whether any adjustments to the above-stated amounts were necessary,” she said.

“I was not able to verify the valuation (recoverability) of amounts owed by related parties with a balance of $24 347 454 on the Company’s statement of financial position. The amounts are owed by companies that have since closed down. Management has failed to provide us with persuasive audit evidence on how and when these amounts would be recovered.”

Chiri said she could also not verify the valuation of the investment of US$20 295 856 and US$178 799 841 into DTZ- OZGEO Limited as the company failed to enable the office of the Auditor-General to assess the fair valuation.

In addition, the ZCDC management also failed to provide the Auditor-General with an impairment assessment for the investment in the subsidiary.

“Consequently, I was unable to determine whether any adjustments to the above-stated amounts were necessary,” Chiri said.

“I was not able to verify the valuation of accruals with a balance of $51 613 628 (US$51.6 million) and trade creditors with a debit balance of $82 686 279 (US$82.7 million) and the rights and obligations of the company thereon. Delays in the recording of invoices into individual supplier accounts meant that as at the time of our report, management had not provided me with sufficient and appropriate evidence to support these amounts.”

On the governance issues, Chiri noted that the mining company did not have independent directors as all board members in the interim had interests in other related parties.

The company also had some goods worth US$352 068 which were long paid for but not yet received, indicating possible deficiencies in the company’s supplier selection or capacity of selected suppliers to fulfil contractual obligations, according to Chiri.

Five carats of diamonds worth US$2 075 belonging to a producer also went missing at the MMCZ during a weight verification exercise.

“In addition, the CCTV video footages could not be retrieved as there was an internal control system failure,” the Auditor-General said.

The ZCDC paid board fees and allowances that were above the approved rates during the year under review, according to Chiri.

By A Correspondent- An unidentified woman was found dead at the corner of George Silundika and 10th Avenue in Bulawayo this morning.
It is suspected that she succumbed to the cold weather.

There was a light drizzle on Sunday afternoon amid cold temperatures that dropped to about seven degrees at night.

Witnesses said the police were called to the scene early in the morning to collect the body.

“We knew her from around the city, she would go out of the city and buy some goods to sell. However, there was a time that her goods were stolen. I think it was three or so years ago and she was never the same again,” said one witness.

Vendors who sell their wares at the corner have since abandoned it saying the place has to be cleansed before they resume business.

Money-changers were seen milling around the scene going about their business.

-State media

By A Correspondent- One of Johanne Masowe yeNyenyedzi Nomwe leaders only identified as Madzibaba Reginald told H-Metro that they follow spiritual orders more than human leaders since humans depend on spiritual guidance.

Madzibaba Reginald who leads a sect worshipping near Graneville Cemetery went on to claim that the Covid-19 pandemic does not affect his followers and are yet to go for vaccination.

“We were yet to receive the message about the ban for churches to conduct services but we respect and follow spiritual orders more since human leaders also seek spiritual guidance,” said Madzibaba Reginald.

“Isisu tinotevera inzwi zvekuti chero zvema facemasks hatishandise nekuti mweya anoti asvika pano haabatwe nechirwere ichi.

“Although we do not defy government orders as a church we follow spiritual orders and concerning vaccination, none of us here has been vaccinated.

“Since we were unaware about these Covid-19 restrictive measures, we usually give announcements to our followers after the service and we will inform them about this,” said Madzibaba Reginald.

Madzibaba Reginald who leads a sect worshipping near Graneville Cemetery claims that the Covid-19 pandemic does not affect his followers and are yet to go for vaccination.

Another shrine led by Madzibaba Sydney in Stoneridge conducted their church service and the sect spokesperson only identified as Madzibaba Victor told H-Metro that their followers do not read newspapers or listen to the radio.

“We were not aware of the ban to gather since most of our followers including myself do not read newspapers or have time to tune in to radio,” said Madzibaba Victor.

“Our leader Madzibaba Sydney is in Zvishavane right now and is not aware of this gathering but I was shocked by the attendance today maybe some received the message of the banning of church gatherings,” said Madzibaba Victor.

Another shrine along Willowvale Road led by one Madzibaba Jeremiah was gathered while conducting prayers during the lockdown.

Several apostolic churches on Sunday defied the Covid-19 gatherings ban with some claiming that they follow spiritual orders

“We had gathered to inform our followers about the government orders and they complied,” said Madzibaba Jeremiah.

“These few people are here to receive prayers and leave the shrine,” he said.

One of the Johanne Masowe yeChishanu leader Madzibaba Moses urged some of his fellow leaders to comply with government directives to save lives from the pandemic.

“Our government has put these measures to save lives from Covid-19 that has taken lives across the globe so there is a need to comply with the restrictive measures set,” said Madzibaba Moses.

“Those who are defying the measures must face disciplinary measures since the measures have been put to save people’s health.

“I complied with the measures set and we will gather when the government says it is safe,” he said.

By A Correspondent- A Chipinge District Hospital official has been arrested for slaughtering stray cattle.

Enock Sibiya allegedly connived with his brother and other accomplices and slaughtered stray cattle around Chipinge town and sell the meat to unsuspecting buyers.

Enock Sibiya (35) and David Sibiya (41), both from Chipinge, were working with Farai Gurudza (44) of Gaza O and Edson Mabvirakare who is already in custody on the same charge.

The gang, which is being represented by Mr Langton Mhunhu of Mhungu Associates Law Firm, appeared before Chipinge magistrate, Mrs Elizabeth Hanzi, on Tuesday.

They are facing stock theft charges as defined in Section 114 (2) (a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

The Sibiya brothers pleaded not guilty and were remanded out of custody on a bail of $10 000 each.

Gurudza was remanded in custody after failing to raise the $10 000 bail.
Enock also appeared before the same court last Friday facing charges of defeating or obstructing the course of justice.

He allegedly tried to stop witnesses from giving their statements to the investigation officers.

Prosecutor, Mr Thukani Zondwayo told the court that between September last year and May 30, the gang connived on four different occasions to steal stray cattle.

“David Sibiya would assign his accomplices to look for stray cattle around Chipinge.
“During the night they would then drive the targeted cattle to a secluded place and slaughter them. The Sibiya brothers would then transport the carcasses to Sithabile Hlunhupi’s house in Gaza.

“Enock would look for buyers and the gang would share the proceeds equally,” said Mr Zondwayo.

By A Correspondent- One of Johanne Masowe yeNyenyedzi Nomwe leaders only identified as Madzibaba Reginald told H-Metro that they follow spiritual orders more than human leaders since humans depend on spiritual guidance.

Madzibaba Reginald who leads a sect worshipping near Graneville Cemetery went on to claim that the Covid-19 pandemic does not affect his followers and are yet to go for vaccination.

“We were yet to receive the message about the ban for churches to conduct services but we respect and follow spiritual orders more since human leaders also seek spiritual guidance,” said Madzibaba Reginald.

“Isisu tinotevera inzwi zvekuti chero zvema facemasks hatishandise nekuti mweya anoti asvika pano haabatwe nechirwere ichi.

“Although we do not defy government orders as a church we follow spiritual orders and concerning vaccination, none of us here has been vaccinated.

“Since we were unaware about these Covid-19 restrictive measures, we usually give announcements to our followers after the service and we will inform them about this,” said Madzibaba Reginald.

Madzibaba Reginald who leads a sect worshipping near Graneville Cemetery claims that the Covid-19 pandemic does not affect his followers and are yet to go for vaccination.

Another shrine led by Madzibaba Sydney in Stoneridge conducted their church service and the sect spokesperson only identified as Madzibaba Victor told H-Metro that their followers do not read newspapers or listen to the radio.

“We were not aware of the ban to gather since most of our followers including myself do not read newspapers or have time to tune in to radio,” said Madzibaba Victor.

“Our leader Madzibaba Sydney is in Zvishavane right now and is not aware of this gathering but I was shocked by the attendance today maybe some received the message of the banning of church gatherings,” said Madzibaba Victor.

Another shrine along Willowvale Road led by one Madzibaba Jeremiah was gathered while conducting prayers during the lockdown.

Several apostolic churches on Sunday defied the Covid-19 gatherings ban with some claiming that they follow spiritual orders

“We had gathered to inform our followers about the government orders and they complied,” said Madzibaba Jeremiah.

“These few people are here to receive prayers and leave the shrine,” he said.

One of the Johanne Masowe yeChishanu leader Madzibaba Moses urged some of his fellow leaders to comply with government directives to save lives from the pandemic.

“Our government has put these measures to save lives from Covid-19 that has taken lives across the globe so there is a need to comply with the restrictive measures set,” said Madzibaba Moses.

“Those who are defying the measures must face disciplinary measures since the measures have been put to save people’s health.

“I complied with the measures set and we will gather when the government says it is safe,” he said.

By A Correspondent- An unidentified woman was found dead at the corner of George Silundika and 10th Avenue in Bulawayo this morning.
It is suspected that she succumbed to the cold weather.

There was a light drizzle on Sunday afternoon amid cold temperatures that dropped to about seven degrees at night.

Witnesses said the police were called to the scene early in the morning to collect the body.

“We knew her from around the city, she would go out of the city and buy some goods to sell. However, there was a time that her goods were stolen. I think it was three or so years ago and she was never the same again,” said one witness.

Vendors who sell their wares at the corner have since abandoned it saying the place has to be cleansed before they resume business.

Money-changers were seen milling around the scene going about their business.

-State media

By A Correspondent- Police details in Bulawayo have arrested two suspected armed robbers who allegedly shot a miner from Maphisa, Matobo district in Matabeleland South and got away with cash.

Their victim is still admitted to the United Bulawayo Hospitals after he was shot on the thigh on Monday last week.

The recovered pistol that they used to rob their victims
Emmanuel Sibanda and Alex Ncube, both aged 28 were last Friday arrested after alert police detectives on patrol observed that Ncube had concealed a gun on his waist.

The detectives arrested Ncube who upon interrogation led them to his accomplice.

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube yesterday said the duo’s arrest is part of the police’s ramped up efforts to arrest criminals terrorising the country committing armed robbery and burglary cases.

Their arrest follows Police Commissioner-General Godwin Matanga’s instruction to provincial commanders to deploy police special units to armed robbery hotbeds in a bid to eradicate crime.

“We have arrested two suspected armed robbers linked to a robbery which occurred in Maphisa on June 14. The suspects, both aged 28 from Gwanda are said to have raided Nanet Mine in Maphisa where they shot one a man on the thigh and got away with US$1400. Their victim is hospitalised at UBH.

This is one of the many armed robberies that are occurring in our country. Therefore, the CID detectives have cleared one of the cases,” said Insp Ncube.

He said when police interrogated the suspects about the source of the gun, they revealed that it was smuggled from South Africa.

“They claimed they bought the firearm from outside Zimbabwe for R3000. They have been charged with armed robbery and attempted murder.

The accused person will appear in court soon,” he said.

-State media

By A Correspondent- A homeless and unidentified woman was found dead outside a city building on Monday morning possibly from the severe cold weather that is currently hitting the city.

Although the cause of death was not yet confirmed by Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube, police, details who attended the scene suspected her exposure to the severe cold weather likely contributed to her death.

The woman woman’s lifeless body was found lying outside a building situated at Corner 10th Avenue and George Silundila Street.

According to a witness Hilton Nyathi, a newspaper vendor, police details who attended the scene suspected the prevailing cold weather was a contributing factor to the woman’s death since she didn’t have any warm clothes on her.

“I was one of the first people to get to the scene and it just broke my heart. This is because I last talked to her yesterday (Sunday)morning when she asked for a $20. I gave her and she was so excited,” said Nyathi.

He adds: “I have known her for the past four years and she was not homeless. She was vendor and I don’t know what happened to her leading her to stay in the streets.

“Police officers who attended the scene suspected that she died from cold weather because she didn’t have blankets or any warmer clothes on her to protect her from the prevailing cold weather”.-statemedia

CABS has temporarily shut down its Bulawayo and Karoi branches after two of its staff members tested positive for COVID-19.

CABS shut down its branches when Zimbabwe has recorded a spike in new COVID-19 infections in the Karoi District.

Karoi is among several districts in Mashonaland West province that have been declared COVID-19 hotspots by the Health ministry and is under localised lockdown.

Below is the statement from CABS:

Dear Valued Customer

We regret to advise that two of our staff tested positive for CovId-19 following PCR tests that were done after exhibiting flu-like symptoms. The affected branches are Jason Moyo in Bulawayo and Karoi. Both branches are closed to allow for disinfection of the branches. PCR testing and self-isolation of our staff. The Jason Moyo branch (Bulawayo) will open for service on 28 June 2021 and Karoi branch will open on 2 July 2021. Banking services will be available at the following areas:

The health and safety of our customers and staff is important to us. therefore we urge you to make use of digital channels; Internet and mobile banking platforms (*227#/mobile app).

We would like to remind you to observe social distancing each time you visit the branch and to adhere to the precautionary measures that have been put in place for your safety.

Thank you for your continued support.

Regards

Mehluli Mpofu

Managing Director

By A Correspondent- A man who allegedly raped his 10-year-old step daughter on several occasions appeared before the court in Marondera recently where the matter was postponed to a later date.

The 42-year-old man, who resides in Marondera’s Paradise Park, but works in Harare, pleaded not guilty when he appeared before regional magistrate Ignatio Kudakwashe Mene.

The case led by Morgan Dube is that on a date unknown to the State, but sometime in 2017, the man’s wife left for work, leaving him with the 10-year-old girl at home.

The man and the girl were allegedly lying on the same bed when he rap_ed her using protection.

From then on, the se_xual assaults allegedly went on for some time as the man threatened the girl with violence if she dared report to her mother.

The girl ran away from home in February this year and narrated her ordeal to her friend.

The matter was later reported to the police.

-statemedia

By Simba Chikanza | A suspected soldier and several armed robbers pounced on a Beitbridge bound Boundary bus last night.

The development was confirmed by local papers, MasvingoMirror and TellZim who revealed the victims are currently hospitalized at Masvingo General Hospital.

While a comment from the local police was awaited at the time of writing, a source cited by ZimEye at the time narrated her ordeal in the following words:

Good morning to you God’s people. I’ve encountered a problem: I came from Bindura last night, and got to Mbudzi at just after 8pm.

I boarded the bus called Boundary from Mbudzi traveling back to Beitbridge. This bus’ operators announced they are going for recess at Mvuma. When they got to Mvuma people got their foods and so forth. After that, while we were inside the bus as we were approaching the tollgate, it emerged there were several armed robbers on the bus, numbering up to 6. They had guns and they had knives; and they redirected the bus into the nearby bush. They kept going to the driver ordering him to turn this way and that way. They were ordering the driver to follow a certain soldier. The bus had traveled a bit into the forest when it was ordered to switch off its lights.

At that point, everyone was searched. We were beaten up. We got sprayed on, on our eyes. We got sprayed from around 1pm. Up to now it is after 2 and our eyes are still itching badly having been sprayed on. Up to now we are still feeling the pain, since others were stabbed.

The armed men were pointing a gun at anyone forcing them to release money.

After that they repeated their search. If you say you don’t have money you will be punished with beatings. It was so difficult today on the 21st June. And these men it seems they began began their plot back in Mbudzi in Harare, where they also got into this bus.

They were also being followed by a small car behind us. When we had turned into the bush, the car that was following us from behind then followed on, it parked outside and these people began searching us. After they began searching they punctured one of the tyres and quickly left.

We then traveled out of the bush. We got up to the tollgate. After leaving the tollgate, 5 km between there and Masvingo, that’s when the bus started moving on its rim; and the driver tried to control the bus. It was now traveling on its rim. Right now we are here where the breakdown happened. We rang the police station; they haven’t responded. There are people here who are bleeding who are still to be checked.

By A Correspondent- MDC Alliance activists Netsai Marova and Cecilia Chimbiri have been summoned to court to answer fresh charges of inciting public violence after they allegedly called for President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s resignation during a protest last year.

According to the summons dated June 18, 2021, the duo is set to appear at the Harare Magistrates Court on July 13 this year.

It is alleged that on the February 19, 2020 at Morgan Richard Tsvangirai House, Marova, Chimbiri and several other MDC activists unlawfully demonstrated while waving placards.

The cards were written “ED enda”, “ED must go”.

They are also accused of singing derogatory songs.

Marova and Chimbiri have several cases that are pending at the courts and have been incarcerated at Chikurubi Maximum Female Prison in pre-trial detention on several occasions.

Jailed activist Makomborero Haruziviishe, and students activists Alan Moyo, Denford Ngadziore, who also have other pending matters of inciting public violence at the courts, are alleged to have been with the duo on the day the offence was committed.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- The cost of living for a family of six surged by 13,4% to $40 680 this month, from $35 877 in April following relentless price hikes stemming from currency volatilities and market jitters triggered by an ad hoc law forcing businesses to peg prices at official rates, Consumer Council of Zimbabwe (CCZ) data showed.

Most Zimbabwean firms obtain their forex from the parallel market where rates spiked sharply following the introduction of Statutory Instrument (SI) 127 of 2021 early this month.

Black market rates have rocketed to $140:US$1, against about $85:US$1 at the foreign currency auction market.

Last week’s figure came as authorities began a ruthless crackdown on low-income earners’ vending cites in Harare and Chitungwiza, which will pile more misery on Zimbabweans who mostly survive on the informal sector, following massive de-industrialisation due to economic mismanagement.

“The cost of living as measured by the Consumer Council of Zimbabwe’s low-income urban earner monthly basket for a family of six increased from the end of April figure of $35 877,92 to 40 682,84 by June 9 2021, showing an increase of $4 804,92 or 13,39%,” the CCZ said.

“The food basket increased by $1 504,23 or 9,83% from $15 303,88 by end of April 2021 to $16 808,11 by June 9 2021.

“The price of detergents increased by $172,69 or 16,74% from $1 031,54 to $1 204,23,” the consumer watchdog said, noting that retailers ignored government pleas not to hike prices after the introduction of the SI.

“According to the recent survey, most suppliers and outlets did not reduce their prices in Zimbabwe dollars to align their pricing with the requirements of SI 127, instead they priced products higher in USD terms to make sure they get round about the same they were getting in local currency before SI 127 of 2021,” CCZ.

Under the SI, businesses were required to align their prices with the official exchange rate, but prices have shot up by about 40% since then, including in United States dollar terms.

“The food basket recorded an increase of 9,83% from $15 303,88 in April to $16 808,11 by June 9 2021,” CCZ said.

“The increases can be attributed to service providers who are consistently adjusting their prices to factor in exchange rate movements and transaction costs of buying forex on the parallel market,” it noted.

In May, the Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency said the average cost of living for a family of five rocketed to $28 853, with prices rocketing at a faster pace in Mashonaland Central, where consumers required $32 540 to fill up the family basket.

Bulawayo and Matabeleland North provinces required over $30 000.

At the heart of the price hikes was a switch by supermarkets to tracking parallel market rates in their pricing models, even after accessing foreign currency at the forex auction market.

Last week, several firms including the Zimbabwe Stock Exchangelisted National Foods were named in a list of forex abusers by the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe, which threatened to charge huge fines announced under SI 127.

Retailers have denied profiteering by manipulating a multiple pricing system currently obtaining on the market. But in a paper lodged with the Finance minister Mthuli Ncube spelling out its expectations for the upcoming midterm budget review, the Confederation of Zimbabwe Retailers recently said that the sector had been held back by monthly fuel price hikes.

By A Correspondent- The Law Society of Zimbabwe (LSZ) has condemned social media attacks on its functionality at the weekend, saying they were meant to dissuade lawyers from executing their duty of guarding against constitutional violations.

LSZ said it had been a victim of social media attacks following its recent application at the courts, challenging the enactment of Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No 1) Act and Constitution of Zimbabwe Amendment (No 2) Act.

In a statement on Saturday, LSZ dismissed accusations that it was aligned to a political party and pledged to continue protecting the public from errant lawyers.

“In the past few months, the Law Society of Zimbabwe has become the target of attacks particularly since submitting an application challenging Constitutional Amendments No 1 and 2,” the LSZ statement read.

“It is clear from the provisions of the law that the Law Society has not veered from its objects amid inferences to the contrary by some characters that are aimed at soiling the image of the profession, the society and its membership. The decision to challenge the two amendments is within the remit of the Law Society’s objects of existence as provided for in section 53 of the Legal Practitioners Act.”

Their statement follows a series of tweets last Saturday by Presidential spokesperson George Charamba, who questioned the independence of the LSZ from political interference.

Charamba also accused it of being partisan, saying it was targeting indigenous law firms and favouring local white-owned firms while performing its regulatory mandate.

“A look at the so-called Law Society of Zimbabwe: Is it really a society of all lawyers? Is a society coercive? Whence comes its certification and regulatory powers? What is the mechanism for ensuring its so-called members are consulted regularly? How has it ensured the welfare of its members?” he tweeted.

“Why are spot-checks targeting indigenous law firms when some big white-originated firms have never been audited for years? Why does it associate with one political party when it claims to be a society of free professionals? Or like a political party, is it an association of politically like-minded people? Would all lawyers subscribe to this one party whose bidding the society does?”

But LSZ described Charamba’s accusations as mischievous and aimed at causing divisions within the profession for his personal benefit.

“While the Law Society can never be immune from constructive criticism, the poisonous social media rants from one individual is totally misplaced and a result of deficiency in information,” it said.

“There seems to be a clearly constructed narrative to create a schism or rift within the profession establishing opposing camps along racial or political lines. This we believe is aimed at weakening the unity of the profession and tarnishing the Law Society’s reputation and public standing as an independent professional body.”

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- A female ECD teacher from Chambuta Primary School in Chiredzi was recently flogged and injured by a parent who accused her of whipping his ECD A pupil.

Gilbert Mahutse, 36, of Kwai Village, Headman Masivamele, Sengwe area flogged Zadziso Machimbirike with a stick.

Mahutse appeared before Chiredzi Magistrate Misheck Brian Munyaradzi on Thursday and pleaded guilty as charged.

The State proved that on April 15 2021, Mahutse approached Machimbirike and assaulted her with a stick in front of her school children.

The court heard that Mahutse assaulted Machimbirike because she had assaulted his child.

Mahutse, however, pleaded for leniency arguing that he had since realised his mistake and apologised to the complainant. He also said that he was helping with hospital bills for the treatment of the teacher’s wounds Masvingo Mirror reports.

In other news, iHarare reported that a 16-year-old woman has given birth to triplets in what the community has embraced as a blessing from God.

However, the couple is struggling to take care of the babies since the husband, 18-year-old Leonard Maenza, is not formally employed.

The teen mum had no idea that hers was a multiple pregnancy, neither did she have a scan or pre-natal care and check-ups.

She said it was a shock discovery that she was having not one or two, but three babies.

The teen mother gave birth naturally at Bindura Hospital on May 3 and together with her husband, Leonard, they are overjoyed.

But the couple has no financial means to look after the family adequately and they are relying on well-wishers.

Ruvarashe fell pregnant last year after dropping out of school in her Form 3 grade due to challenges with school fees.

By A Correspondent- The ruling Zanu-PF party has been rocked by serious infighting ahead of provincial congresses, with clashes being reported in Mashonaland West, Mashonaland Central, Midlands and other provinces.

It emerged that the names of President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Vice-President Constantino Chiwenga were being dropped to cow rivals while promoting their horses, a situation that has also exposed deep-rooted factionalism in the party.

The fights are said to be serious enough that in Mashonaland West province the party acting national commissar Patrick Chinamasa read the riot act to curb a potentially explosive situation.

Chinamasa’s intervention was forced by fights over the alleged imposition of Abia Mujere by former provincial chairman Ziyambi Ziyambi, who was recently appointed to the politburo.

This has triggered objections from a camp said to be linked to Mashonaland West Provincial Affairs minister Mary Mliswa-Chikoka.

“The communication is to inform you that Cde Abia Mujere is, and remains the appropriate acting chairman for Mashonaland West province pending the conduct of provincial elections scheduled to take place countrywide at a date to be announced in due course,” Chinamasa said.

“This clarification should put to rest the dispute with some party members over this matter. The province is advised that no co-options for any vacant posts should be made without authorisation from the acting secretary for the commissariat.”

The letter was copied to the party chairperson Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri and secretary for administration, Obert Mpofu.

There have been fights in Mashonaland Central province where provincial chairman Kazembe Kazembe is reportedly blocking individuals who are preparing to challenge him in the polls.

There have been reports that Kazembe has been growing increasingly unpopular with party structures in the province and that he is using intimidatory tactics to hold on to the post of chairperson.

Insiders alleged that some of Kazembe’s tactics included waging in a smear campaign against his rival, Walter Makamba claiming that Mnangagwa did not like the businessman because he was alleged to be a G40 supporter.

Businessman Tafadzwa Musarara is also said to be interested in the party provincial chairmanship.

Kazembe, however, dismissed the allegations, saying no individual within the party had the power to block anyone from contesting in an election.

“What happened in the provincial co-ordinating committee is not unique (clashes). A lot happens in politics and everywhere. People gossip, drop names, assassinate each other’s characters, and do all sorts of things every day and everywhere,” he told NewsDay yesterday.

“We don’t condone such behaviour. I have also been a target of these dirty tricks where people create fake stories about me. Everyday you hear of people plotting to remove the chairman but I’m not moved. That comes with the terrain. I am focusing on working for the party and the people.”

In the Midlands, sources said there were serious fights over who should lead the province.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- Speaker of the National Assembly, Jacob Mudenda last Thursday said citizens were failing to hold Parliament and the Executive accountable by questioning the actions of their MPs when executing their oversight role.

Mudenda made the remarks in Bulawayo during a public lecture on Parliament’s role on public finance management, which was organised by the Lupane State University (LSU).

He said citizens should petition Parliament and demand accountability as it was their constitutional right to do so.

“I am happy that you are saying Parliament has not exercised its oversight role well. I agree, but at the same time, the problem comes back to you as citizens because you have been failing to engage Parliament,” Mudenda said.

“You should call your MPs and inquire on your Constituency Development Funds. Crying does not help, you should not only talk, but you must take action. The civic society organisations (CSOs) are good at criticising, but they do not offer solutions, they only talk from a distance.

“You should call the MPs and councillors to account. There were complaints earlier about the roads in Bulawayo, go and call your councillors. You are the ones that elected the councillors and the MPs. It is you citizens that pass the budget. If you come today and say we no longer want our MP, you use section 129 of the Constitution to recall MPs.”

Mudenda said CSOs should influence citizens to recall non-performing MPs and councillors.

“Your MPs and councillors have let you down, why have you not petitioned Parliament in terms of section 149 of the Constitution (on the right to petition Parliament)?”

The Speaker also challenged scholars to critique and analyse Bills before they are passed in Parliament.

“I exhort you, Master Degree scholars in the academia, to commit yourself in playing a pivotal role in enhancing public finance management. Visit our websites and download the gazetted Bills before Parliament and critique them,” Mudenda said.

“Intellectually offer your critical analysis of them in order to qualitatively improve the architecture of the laws. Attend parliamentary public hearings and make your inputs in the law-making processes.”

He said scholars should not blame the poor quality of laws on MPs, adding that they should take a leaf from Rwanda where all MPs hold a minimum of a first degree.

-newsday

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe is facing crunch time in its battle to curb rising COVID-19 infections and deaths as the third wave grips the country, medical experts said yesterday.

This comes after the World Health Organisation (WHO) on Friday warned that the situation will get worse in Africa as COVID-19 cases rise at a time when health institutions were failing to handle new admissions.

On Saturday, Zimbabwe recorded 10 COVID-19 deaths, which brought the number of people who succumbed to the virus last week to 40, with an average of five people dying daily.

Infections have been on the rise in the past week with 408 cases recorded on Friday and 293 on Saturday.

Zimbabwe has now recorded 1 666 deaths from 41 628 infections. Medical and Dental Private Practitioners of Zimbabwe Association president Johannes Marisa told NewsDay that the latest figures were enough warning for the country to improve its poor testing as the number of infections could actually be understated.

“We are in big trouble, not only in Zimbabwe, but in other southern African countries as well. The virus is affecting some countries, which were previously recording low cases in previous waves. We need to be very cautious. We may experience the worst fatalities of the pandemic since we were hard-hit in 2020, especially at a time when we do not have enough resources to deal with the Indian and South Af-rican variants.

“Due to extreme poverty, some are not even affording sanitisers and face masks. In Africa, we also do not have enough vaccines. There is poor health education on the pandemic, which is also another big challenge. There is also the issue of poor testing facilities and contact-tracing, which will worsen the situation,” Marisa said.

Community Working Group on Health executive director Itai Rusike said poor testing could result in a large number of cases be-ing unaccounted for.

“As the country witnesses a new spike in COVID-19 cases and deaths, with rapid testing, authorities can stay a step ahead by scaling up active case finding in challenging environments in urban and rural communities,” Rusike said.

“Testing is the first key line of de-fence against the virus as it allows for the isolation of cases to slow transmission and enhances provision of targeted care to those infected. Testing is also essential for the delivery of COVID-19 vaccines.

“The COVID-19 reality on the ground is worse than the official figures as a lot more people may be infected and moving around without knowing their status. This third wave is highly infectious and spreading devastatingly quickly.”

WHO director-general Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus on Friday said COVID-19 infections in Africa had increased by over 52%, with deaths increasing by 32% in the past week.

He said African countries were likely to be overwhelmed by the surge in COVID-19 cases due to vaccine shortages.

“In Africa, cases have increased by 52% just in the past week and deaths have increased by 32%. And we expect things to only get worse. Vaccines donated next year will be far too late for those who are dying today or being infected today or at risk today,” he said.

Only 432 572 people had received their second vaccination jabs, while 701 348 had received their first jabs by June 19, 2021. The country has targetted to vaccinate 60% of its population, about 10 million people to achieve herd immunity.

Zimbabwe Association of Doctors for Human Rights secretary Norman Matara said: “We are now in a wave where we are seeing rising cases, so it is everyone’s responsibility to make sure we contain the virus. On the part of citizens, we need to behave to avoid going out and avoid unnecessary gatherings. On the part of government, we need to intensify our testing so that we test as many people as possible to identify those with the disease and do the right thing.”

Progressive Teachers’ Union of Zimbabwe president Takavafira Zhou claimed that over 500 teachers were affected by the pandemic since the beginning of this year.

“We have more than 500 cases of COVID-19 infections among our teachers countrywide. Of these, there were 20 deaths this year alone that have been confirmed to us through our structures.”

He said when schools open during the pandemic, teachers must refuse to teach bloated classes, or even to mark books of pupils who have not been tested for the virus.

Government has indicated that schools will open on June 28 despite the surge in new infections.

-Newsday

By A Correspondent- A Plumtree  woman was robbed of ZAR22 500 at gunpoint on Friday at her homestead in Ndolwane.

Sethi Ndlovu lost a large amount of money to robbers around 1am when the robbers pounced at her homestead and demanded  money.

Sources close to investigations told Bulawayo24.com that the robbers were in possession of a pistol and hammers when they  reportedly threatened to kill the complainant.

“At around 0100 hours, suspects  entered the complainant’s homestead and opened her bedroom door. One of the accused lighted the complainant on the face  with a torch. They were wearing face masks while holding hammers and a pistol”, said the  source.

The source further alleged that   the robbers took away ZAR2500 under the mattress and demanded more money while hitting Ndlovu with the hammer.

“The accused then demanded fuel from the complainant and she told them she does not have the fuel,then accused hit her once on her right foot and on the right arm with a hammer. They then searched the house and found  ZAR20000 and USD$1100 and fled away using an unidentified car which the complainant heard idling outside”, the source added.

Ndlovu reported the matter to police before going to a local clinic where she was treated and discharged.

No arrests has since being made and efforts to get a comment from Inspector Loveness Mangena, Matabeleland South police spokesperson were futile.

Cases of armed robbery are on the rise especially in Matabeleland and recently police warned people to avoid keeping large sums of money at home.

MASVINGO –Several passengers of a South Africa bound bus are admitted at Masvingo General Hospital after they were stabbed, paper sprayed, and stripped of valuables by six armed robbers last night.

Police spokesperson Inspector Kudakwashe Dhewa could not be immediately reached for a comment. 

Sources quoted by The Mirror said the Boundary Express bus was attacked by a six men gang armed with pistols, machetes and knives near Mushagashe Business Centre at around midnight near the Masvingo-Harare tollgate.

The armed robbers stabbed several passengers before stripping them of their valuables.

The Mirror could not immediately establish the number of admitted passengers.

The bus was coming from Harare and it is parked at Masvingo Central Police.

ZimEye on Monday afternoon is running a live program to check on victims.

By A Correspondent- A man who attempted to rap_e a 13-year-old juvenile in the bush has been jailed three years.

Witness Chimedza, 30, of Musanhi Village, Chijaka in Chinhoyi appeared before Chinhoyi Regional Magistrate Ignatius Mugova charged with attempted rap_e.

Mugova sentenced him to 36 months’ imprisonment where 12 months were suspended for two years.

Chimedza will serve an effective 24 months in prison.

Prosecuting, Kesia Teveraishe told the court that on January 28, the juvenile was returning home after sending off her grandmother.

On her way she met Chimedza who asked her to accompany him into the bush but she resisted his move.

However, Chimedza grabbed the juvenile by her hand and dragged her into the bush.

He started to f0ndle her and demanded se_x.

However, the juvenile stood her ground and turned down his request.

She screamed for help and a Good Samaritan, who was nearby, came to her rescue.

She narrated her ordeal to her grandmother and the matter was reported to the police leading to Chimedza’s arrest.

-HMetro

By A Correspondent- A Chinhoyi man was grisly murdered and had his body left in a disused house.

John Fundo, 25, of Destiny was found dead in the wee hours of Wednesday morning.

Two suspects have since been arrested for murder while the other two are on the run.

Mashonaland West Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Magret Chitove told H-Metro that residents from Ruvimbo Phase 2, discovered the body of Fundo in an unfinished house.

Inspector Chitove said Fundo was found having difficulties in breathing and an informer made a report at ZRP Chemagamba.

ZRP Chemagamba and CID quickly reacted to the report and found Fundo dead.

Police made investigations and got information that Fundo was assaulted by four men.

The arrested suspects are MacDonald Mushove, 28, and Denford Matore, 27.

Fundo was found with a deep cut in his head and bruises all over his body.

Insp Chitove urged members of the public to preserve the sanctity of life.

“Whenever people have misunderstandings, they must resolve them amicably or invite the police so that the law follows its due course,” said Insp Chitove.

She underscored the need for the members of the general populace not to take the law into their own hands.

Insp Chitove said the suspects will appear in court soon.

“Fundo’s body was taken to Chinhoyi Provincial Hospital awaiting a post mortem.

“The police are still hunting for the two suspects who are still at large. Fundo’s next of kin has been advised,” said Insp Chitove.

By A Correspondent- Zimbabwe comedienne Madam Boss, born Tarisai Chikocho, was recently appointed RwandAir brand Ambassador.

She shared her exciting news with fans and followers on her social media platforms.

Below are some pictures of her appointment that she shared on social media:

By A Correspondent- A bigamous policeman stationed in Victoria Falls allegedly stabbed his estranged wife 10 times, killing her on the spot.

Constable Bright Ndlovu (28) of ZRP Victoria Falls last Thursday followed Ms Muchaneta Siziba (21) to Kamativi where he ruthlessly stabbed her for allegedly refusing to reconcile with him.

Ms Siziba had fled to Kamativi to stay with her aunt after Ndlovu allegedly brought another woman to the matrimonial home last year.

Police sources said the body had multiple stab wounds and the intestines were protruding.

The couple stayed together in Victoria Falls before Ms Siziba left her matrimonial home after Ndlovu had married another woman.

She went to stay with her aunt in Tinde area of Kamativi. Ndlovu followed her last week Friday intending to beg her to return home and when she refused, he allegedly stabbed her several times in the presence of her aunt Ms Easter Dumbura Shoko.

Ndlovu fled from the scene and was arrested on Saturday afternoon at Pashu shops where he had stopped to buy food when an alert policeman spotted him. National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi urged members of the public not to resort to violence to solve disputes.

“We are investigating a case where a member of the organisation stabbed his estranged wife and ran away. Couples should resolve differences in a peaceful manner and should seek guidance from elders, church or community leaders if faced with domestic disputes,” said Assistant Commissioner Nyathi.

Ndlovu is assisting police with investigations and is expected to appear in court today charged with murder.

According to police, Ndlovu and Ms Siziba had a misunderstanding sometime last year while they were staying together at Victoria Falls Police Camp which led to their separation. On Thursday last week Ms Siziba proceeded to her rural home in Tinde and Ndlovu followed her on Friday where he intended to meet and talk about reunion.

He reportedly spoke to Ms Shoko and also apologised to Ms Siziba and asked her to return to their matrimonial home but she refused, police said.

Ndlovu showed Ms Siziba’s aunt a list of things he claimed he had paid to the deceased’s father in Nembudziya, Gokwe as lobola after selling his car.

At around 8pm while in Ms Shoko’s bedroom hut, Ndlovu allegedly asked for Ms Siziba’s phone and she refused to give him.

A misunderstanding ensued and Ndlovu stabbed her all over the body.

Ms Siziba screamed for help and her aunt rushed outside where she picked a log and struck Ndlovu.

The accused allegedly fled leaving a bag containing his police uniform. Ms Siziba staggered out of the bedroom hut but collapsed and died in the yard.

She had deep cuts all over the body and intestines were protruding. A report was made to the police leading to Ndlovu’s arrest on Saturday.

Ms Siziba’s body was taken to Bulawayo for post-mortem.

-statemedia

By A Corresondent- Three teachers at Karoi schools succumbed to COVID-19 on Thursday last week as Zimbabwe is experiencing a coronavirus resurgence.

Karoi is among several districts in Mashonaland West province that have been declared COVID-19 hotspots by the Health ministry and is under localised lockdown.

One of the deceased teachers, Goodluck Tobaiwa Chambe, of Chikangwe High School was a principal marking supervisor under the Combined Science section.

Progressive Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (PTUZ) secretary-general Raymond Majongwe said it was sad that Chambe died without getting his dues for marking last year’s ZIMSEC examinations. Said Majongwe:

_We are not happy that the late Karoi teacher (Chambe) was yet to get paid by Zimsec. He never got his dues and this is how bad it is as people who offered services, but national institutions renege on making payments. The impact of COVID-19 is obviously felt as he could have used the funds to buy protective equipment and to get medical attention. This is a tragedy._

Zimsec public relations manager Nicky Dlamini consoled the Chambe family confirming examination markers were yet to receive their allowances.

Dlamini said:

_We are sorry for the family’s loss. Let me confirm that the payments for teachers, who marked Zimsec examinations, are currently being processed. Those that marked language papers were paid in May, the next batch of payments is being dispatched._

_COVID-19 affected many systems, not only Zimsec, but globally. It is unfortunate, but the payments were made in batches._

Majongwe said more teachers were likely to succumb to the pandemic and appealed to the government to immediately put in place measures to protect them.

He added that PTUZ views the premature reopening of schools as criminal as that has resulted in the loss of lives.

-Newsday/Pindula

Job Vacancy Applications: The Postal and Telecommunications Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (POTRAZ) is inviting applications for the Receptionist post that has risen.

1. Potraz – Receptionist

• HARARE – duty station
• June 20, 2021 – date posted
• June 30, 2021 – deadline
• Full Time

Job Summary

Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced Zimbabwean citizens to fill the above-mentioned vacancy position.
JOB PURPOSE
This position has the responsibility of managing and supporting the flow of information in the organization. The position is there to provide effective and courteous service to people contacting the organization in a manner that promotes a positive image
REMUNERATION
An appropriate package will be negotiated with the successful candidate.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Operating centralized telephone system, answering incoming calls and directing such calls to staff members
• Transferring and making outgoing calls to ensure communication from all POTRAZ staff and stakeholders.

• Recording telephone messages and passing them to respective staff members.

• Receiving visitors and directing them to appropriate offices.
• Maintaining a file on telephone usage.
• Attending and operating the Authority’s enquiry desk to ensure the provision of a quality service to all POTRAZ Stakeholders.
• Receiving and forwarding parcels to Registry for internal delivery.
• Typing correspondences, letters and confidential documents.
• Managing meeting rooms scheduling and bookings.
• Managing main entrance doors security control system to ensure access by visitors.
Maintaining a neat and tidy appearance of the reception and waiting areas.

Qualifications and Experience

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
• National Diploma in Secretarial Studies or equivalent.
• A minimum of 5 .0″ Levels Including English and Math’s at grade C or better.
• At least 2-3 years relevant experience.
COMPETENCIES
• Results focus.
• Customer service orientation.
SKILLS
• Analytical Skills
• Reasoning Ability
• Computer Skills

How to Apply

Applications from persons meeting the above criteria, together with detailed Curriculum Vitae and certified copies of qualifications should be sent not later than 30 June 2021 to The Director-General, 1008 Performance Close, Mt Pleasant Business Park, Harare, P. 0. 8ox MP 843. Mt Pleasant, Harare or Email: [email protected]

2. The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company (ZETDC) is calling applications for the  Technician Assistant post x2 – Haven Substation (Kwekwe).

• Kwekwe
• June 20, 2021
• June 25, 2021
• Full Time

Job Summary

The Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission & Distribution Company is looking for suitably qualified and experienced candidates to fill in the underlisted fixed term contract posts, which have arisen within ZETDC Regional Transmission West.

Duties and Responsibilities

Duties and Responsibilities:
• Assists the Technician during switching.
• Assists in fault finding and the jointing of cables by carrying but line patrols as necessary.
• Assists Technician in substation refurbishments, Digs trenches for substations and cables.
• Ensures tidiness of the working area.
• Cleans vehicle and lockers daily. Assist in carrying out installation and maintenance work in substations.
• Carrying out housekeeping in control buildings and substations grounds.

• Carry out housekeeping in substation stores yards.
• Carrying out substation readings.
• Carrying out tool and equipment care for appliances used in substation maintenance

Qualifications and Experience

• 5’0 Levels Including English Language and Mathematics • Skilled Worker Class 4 • 3 years relevant experience

How to Apply

All applications to be accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae and certified copies of academic certificates, professional qualifications and identity documents should be submitted not later than 25 June 2021 to

The Transmission and Distribution Director Zimbabwe Electricity Transmission and Distribution Company ZESA Head Office, Electricity Centre, 8th Floor 28 Samora Machel & Avenue P.O Box 1760 HARARE
Email address: [email protected]

By A Correspondent- A self confessed witch in Chimanimani was last Friday caught red handed at a fellow villager’s homestead hardly a fortnight after she was trapped while trying to snatch a newly-born baby.

Enesis Kaisa allegedly ‘crashed’ at her unidentified target’s homestead before she could get into the hut where the intended victim was sleeping in.

Unlike in the recent incident in which she was caught stark nak_ed, this time she had her clothes on.

Chief Saurombe confirmed the incident which happened in Chiutani Village.

He said Kaisa now faces banishment from the village if she is found guilty when the case is brought before his court this weekend.

“This is unacceptable. Just as we were finalising the first case in which she was caught trying to kill someone’s baby, she is at it again. She will appear before my court this weekend and Chief Muusha is also expected to be present. We will co-preside over the matter.

“She ran out of luck because most villagers here are now protecting their homesteads through miteyo (witch traps). I think she was not aware of this development. If she is found guilty, we will banish her from this village but she will have to pay for her sins first. We do not condone such behaviour,” said Chief Saurombe.

The court heard that Kaisa was found lying at her target’s homestead in the wee hours of the morning. She however confessed ignorance on how she had arrived there.

Concerned villagers took the matter to Chief Saurombe’s court.

In the recent case in which she was caught at Esnath Muyambo’s homestead while trying to snatch a newly-born baby, Kaisa was ordered to pay a fine of two beasts after she was found guilty.

Kaisa confessed that she had been on a mission to kill the baby, further revealing that she had been sent by another villager.

“Muyambo’s grandchild was the target in that case, but she is safe,” said Chief Saurombe.

By A Correspondent- In a macabre real life drama that has left Chiutani villagers in Chimanimani and surrounding areas weak-kneed, an elderly woman has revealed that she has been forcing her granddaughter to breastfeed a snake.

The matter came to light last week on Saturday at Chief Saurombe’s court when Gogo Dalice Dzamura was summoned to answer to the witchcraft allegations that were being levelled against her by her granddaughter, Portia Dzemura.

Portia is in her early 20s.

Gogo Dzemura admitted to practising witchcraft and forcing her grandchild, Portia, to breastfeed a snake.

She, however, did not reveal why she was forcing Portia to breastfeed the reptile.

Chief Saurombe found her guilty and ordered her to pay a fine of three goats on Sunday.

Three traditional healers and exorcists will conduct cleansing ceremonies for both Gogo Dzemura and Portia.

During the court session, Portia was in tears as she narrated her ordeal.

Her mother spoke of how her daughter is now an outcast in the community due to the case.

“It is a strange and sad development. We have heard of witchcraft cases before, but this one is extraordinary. We hope that this matter will be put to rest so that my daughter can be freed from this bondage.

“She is a young woman who looks forward to getting married and having a family of her own. Most men are now shunning her because of this. Those who were close to her are now distancing themselves from her,” said Portia’s mother.

In an interview, Chief Saurombe said the case is strange, scary and unheard of.

“Portia approached our courts revealing that she was being forced to breastfeed a snake which appears and disappears. She revealed that milk oozes out of her breasts when the snake is about to breastfeed. This is the first time I have heard of such a case in my area.

“Gogo Dzemura has confessed to practising witchcraft and causing misfortunes in the village. She says she was forcing Portia to breastfeed the snake.

“Portia is a troubled woman as the society now views her as an outcast,” said Chief Saurombe.

-Manicapost

By A Correspondent- The ministry of Health and Child Care which is headed by Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga has been exposed after it has been discovered that two provincial hospitals are keeping expired drugs.

According to the state media, a report by the Auditor-General’s Office has revealed that some of the drugs have expiry dates of as far back as 1995.

The expired drugs — which were being held in reserve at Masvingo Provincial Hospital — had expired between 1995 and 2019, while Marondera Provincial Hospital did not take heed of a directive to dispose of expired drugs worth $ 7 140 in 2019.

In addition to putting the lives of patients at risk, the hospitals allowed the drugs to expire at a time patients were in need of them.

According to Auditor-General Mrs Mildred Chiri’s report for the financial year ended December 31, 2019 on Appropriation Accounts and Fund Accounts, which was recently tabled in Parliament, the two hospitals breached Section 90 of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act.

The Act requires disposal of all obsolete, surplus and unserviceable assets.

Expired medicines are supposed to be destroyed “twice a year in normal circumstances”, with the quantities expected to be minimal.

“The report notes that keeping the expired drugs in storage opened loopholes for theft and corruption.

“Failure to dispose of the dangerous drugs and expired drugs may result
in pilferage which pose danger to the public.

“Also storing expired drugs deprives the pharmacy of the much-needed storage space,” adds the report.

Mrs Chiri said she was not provided with application letters for disposal of the expired drugs.

“It was also not clear whether the hospital had applied for such authority after the board of survey was conducted.

“Marondera Provincial Hospital was granted authority to dispose of expired drugs worth $7 140 on July 26, 2019.

“However, as at the time of my audit, the expired drugs were still at the hospital.”

The report recommended that the Ministry of Health and Child Care should engage the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe for the board of survey to be conducted.

“Management should make efforts to have the expired drugs destroyed as soon as the authority has been granted.

-Sunday Mail

BY A CORRESPONDENT| The Harare Magistrates Court has summoned Augur Investments Managing Director Michael John Van Blerk’s medical doctor to appear in court to clarify on his sickness which has stalled his trial on charges of malicious damage to property.

Van Blerk is jointly charged together with City of Harare officials Hosiah Chisango and Engineer Isaiah Chawatama as well as Samuel Kadye and Mandla Marlone Ndebele from Augur Investments.

Last week, Van Blerk’s lawyers said he was unable to navigate the stairs at the Harare Magistrates Court due to illness.

They also brought a letter from a medical doctor from Parirenyatwa general hospital dated 4 June 2021 which indicated that Van Blerk was not fit to stand trial.

“This letter serves to notify you that Mr Van Blerk Michael John is currently being followed up for depression. He is currently not fit to stand trial and will not be able to follow through court proceedings. He needs to stabilize first on medication,” said a Dr Muzvidziwa.

It is the State case that Van Blerk and his co-accused connived to destroy a shoe house built by Harare businessman George Katsimberis claiming that he did not have approved plans.

Katsimberis denies the claims and has insisted that he followed all the procedures.

During the hearing on an application for exception by Katsimberis last week, state prosecutor Michael Reza confirmed that stamps and signatures on architectural designs were authentic.

Last week, Van Blerk’s legal counsel successfully convinced the court to separate him from his co-accused citing inability to appear in court.

Now the court wants to hear from his doctors who will be expected to answer on when he is likely to be fit for trial among other questions.

By A Correspondent- The ministry of Health and Child Care which is headed by Vice President, Constantino Chiwenga has been exposed after it has been discovered that two provincial hospitals are keeping expired drugs.

According to the state media, a report by the Auditor-General’s Office has revealed that some of the drugs have expiry dates of as far back as 1995.

The expired drugs — which were being held in reserve at Masvingo Provincial Hospital — had expired between 1995 and 2019, while Marondera Provincial Hospital did not take heed of a directive to dispose of expired drugs worth $ 7 140 in 2019.

In addition to putting the lives of patients at risk, the hospitals allowed the drugs to expire at a time patients were in need of them.

According to Auditor-General Mrs Mildred Chiri’s report for the financial year ended December 31, 2019 on Appropriation Accounts and Fund Accounts, which was recently tabled in Parliament, the two hospitals breached Section 90 of the Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets Act.

The Act requires disposal of all obsolete, surplus and unserviceable assets.

Expired medicines are supposed to be destroyed “twice a year in normal circumstances”, with the quantities expected to be minimal.

“The report notes that keeping the expired drugs in storage opened loopholes for theft and corruption.

“Failure to dispose of the dangerous drugs and expired drugs may result
in pilferage which pose danger to the public.

“Also storing expired drugs deprives the pharmacy of the much-needed storage space,” adds the report.

Mrs Chiri said she was not provided with application letters for disposal of the expired drugs.

“It was also not clear whether the hospital had applied for such authority after the board of survey was conducted.

“Marondera Provincial Hospital was granted authority to dispose of expired drugs worth $7 140 on July 26, 2019.

“However, as at the time of my audit, the expired drugs were still at the hospital.”

The report recommended that the Ministry of Health and Child Care should engage the Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe for the board of survey to be conducted.

“Management should make efforts to have the expired drugs destroyed as soon as the authority has been granted.

-Sunday Mail

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration has dismally failed to address the needs and concerns of citizens.

According to President Chamisa, the real problem in the country is the election rigging structure established by Zanu PF.

President Chamisa also said Mr Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration can’t demolish illegal structures.

“AN ILLEGAL GOVERNMENT CAN’T DEMOLISH ILLEGAL STRUCTURES…

It can’t be normal for a government to specialize in destruction and demolition.

And why always do a ‘murambatsvina’ during cold winters? Unless we deal with the illegal structure produced by rigged elections, illegalities will be difficult to stop.

Vatadza kupedza urombo hezvo vopaza varombo.

Let’s stop this. Break this cycle of pain and misery.
! #ResistDictatorship

RegisterToVoteZW,” President Chamisa wrote on his official Facebook page on Sunday.

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration has dismally failed to address the needs and concerns of citizens.

According to President Chamisa, the real problem in the country is the election rigging structure established by Zanu PF.

President Chamisa also said Mr Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration can’t demolish illegal structures.

“AN ILLEGAL GOVERNMENT CAN’T DEMOLISH ILLEGAL STRUCTURES…

It can’t be normal for a government to specialize in destruction and demolition.

And why always do a ‘murambatsvina’ during cold winters? Unless we deal with the illegal structure produced by rigged elections, illegalities will be difficult to stop.

Vatadza kupedza urombo hezvo vopaza varombo.

Let’s stop this. Break this cycle of pain and misery.
! #ResistDictatorship

RegisterToVoteZW,” President Chamisa wrote on his official Facebook page on Sunday.

Tinashe Sambiri|MDC Alliance leader President Nelson Chamisa has said Mr Emmerson Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration has dismally failed to address the needs and concerns of citizens.

According to President Chamisa, the real problem in the country is the election rigging structure established by Zanu PF.

President Chamisa also said Mr Mnangagwa’s Illegal administration can’t demolish illegal structures.

“AN ILLEGAL GOVERNMENT CAN’T DEMOLISH ILLEGAL STRUCTURES…

It can’t be normal for a government to specialize in destruction and demolition.

And why always do a ‘murambatsvina’ during cold winters? Unless we deal with the illegal structure produced by rigged elections, illegalities will be difficult to stop.

Vatadza kupedza urombo hezvo vopaza varombo.

Let’s stop this. Break this cycle of pain and misery.
! #ResistDictatorship

RegisterToVoteZW,” President Chamisa wrote on his official Facebook page on Sunday.

By A Correspondent- Leader of the break away faction of the MDC Douglas Mwonzora is afraid of elections, the MDC Alliance has said.

In a tweet following revelations of Mwonzora’s demands after his secret visit to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’at the State House, the party described Mwonzora as an illegitimate leader scared of elections.

Said the MDC Alliance:

“Mwonzora is afraid of an election. He wants to prolong his illegitimate union with Zanu PF for as long as possible.

He fears the day of reckoning when the people will speak out against his anti-people agenda. #RegisterToVote #ResistDictatorship

By A Correspondent- A 45 year old man in Zaka, Chief Nhema assaulted his 23-year-old stepson to death on allegations that he was disrespectful.

“On 9 June 2021 Tinashe Muube (45) around 11.30PM arrived at his home from Chiromo Business Centre where he was beer binging and went straight to the kitchen were his mother Enia Mabhiza (78), Abiort Chikwanda (23) and a 15-year-old boy were sitting shouting on top of his voice.

He started beating Chikwanda all over the body. Mabhiza and the juvenile tried to stop Muube from beating Chikwanda but were chased out of the hut.

“Muube continued beating Chikwanda until his wife Jenifer Wavarirai (45) heard the screaming of Chikwanda and came running trying to refrain his husband from beating the child but to no avail. She went and reported the incident to their uncle Tafadzwa Muube (55) who in turn alerted the neighbours,” he said.

When Muube saw the villagers he ran away and the villagers found Chikwanda already dead. The matter was reported on June 10 and the police found out that the body had deep cuts on the left side of the head, bruises and fractured right leg. The body was taken to Musiso Hospital mortuary.