Ivan Zhakata Herald Reporter
Two policemen and a civilian were shot dead on Tuesday by a suspected poacher in Chipinge while trying to arrest the illegal hunter.
Sergeants Robert Shumba (39) and Vengai Mazhara (35) from Chipinge Urban Police Internal Security Intelligence (PISI) section, were deployed for an operation code-named “Zvigwayagwaya” after receiving a tip-off that a suspected poacher was in possession of a gun.
Acting on the tip off, the two officers proceeded to Chaita Simango’s homestead at plot number 34, Naffaerton in Chpinge to arrest the suspect.
Upon reaching Simango’s homestead, the officers arrested him and ordered him to lead them to the suspect’s hideout.
Simango reportedly told them that the person they were looking for was inside the house before leading the way into the house.
On entering the house, the suspected poacher allegedly jumped up, grabbed his AK-47 rifle and opened fire killing the two officers and Simango on the spot.
He fled the scene.
National police spokesperson Senior Assistant Commissioner Charity Charamba confirmed the shooting in a statement.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police would like to confirm the death of two police officers and one civilian, namely Sergeant Robert Shumba (39), Sergeant Vengai Mazhara (35) and Chaita Simango (22) in a shooting incident which occurred at plot number 34, Naffaeton, Chipinge, on 24 November at around 1110 hours,” she said.
“Circumstances are that the police officers reacted to a tip-off that a suspected poacher was in possession of a firearm at Chaita Simango’s homestead. On seeing the police details, the unknown accused sprang into action and opened fire killing the two police officers and Chaita Simango instantly. He then fled from the scene,” Snr Asst Comm Charamba said.
She appealed to the public for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect to contact the nearest police station.