In a shocking and disturbing turn of events, suspected state security agents have allegedly abducted and brutally assaulted Shingai Munashe Marere, a Harare-based construction manager closely associated with award-winning Zimbabwean journalist, Hopewell Chin’ono.
The incident, which occurred yesterday, highlights a chilling case of brutality and intimidation in a country plagued by a history of abductions and human rights violations.
According to reports from security sources and family members, Marere, aged 29, was seized by state agents around 4pm and subjected to a vicious assault before being left for dead along Old Mazowe Road, approximately 18km northwest of Harare.
Despite the brutal attack, Marere managed to regain consciousness and attempted to flee in his car. However, he lost control of the vehicle shortly afterward due to the severity of his injuries and toxic drugging.
This harrowing ordeal comes amid growing concerns over the alarming trend of abductions, torture, and forced disappearances orchestrated by state security agents in Zimbabwe.
The incident bears striking similarities to previous cases, including the abduction and brutalization of opposition MP Takudzwa Ngadziore in November last year.
Highly informed sources familiar with the matter have described yesterday’s operation as a confrontational and intelligence-style tailing operation, bearing all the hallmarks of the notorious Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO).
Marere was reportedly lured to Old Mazowe Road under the guise of a meeting with journalists to discuss his alleged harassment by state security agents seeking Hopewell Chin’ono’s new address in South Africa.
Shingai Munashe Marere’s car after he was abducted, beaten and injected with toxins along Old Mazowe Road, about 18km northwest of Harare, yesterday.
Chin’ono, who has relocated to Johannesburg, has been an outspoken critic of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s government and a prominent anti-corruption advocate.
Marere’s close association with Chin’ono, coupled with his involvement in construction projects for the journalist, has made him a target for state intimidation and harassment.
Prior to his abduction, Marere had voiced concerns to Chin’ono, family members, and journalists about being closely followed by unknown individuals, including a suspicious vehicle with South African registration.
Also read: Man ‘Tendai Nhambasora’ In Court For Stealing a Kid in Kuwadzana!
Despite facing mounting pressure from state agents to divulge Chin’ono’s address, Marere remained steadfast in his refusal to cooperate.
Marere sent this photo to his family and friends yesterday saying he was being followed before his abduction.
The abduction and brutal assault on Marere have sent shockwaves throughout Zimbabwe, raising serious questions about the rule of law and the safety of citizens critical of the government.
As Marere fights for his life in hospital, his ordeal serves as a stark reminder of the dangers faced by those who dare to speak out against injustice and corruption in Zimbabwe.
For feedback and comments, please contact ZiMetro News on WhatsApp: +27 82 836 5828.
