Seven opposition CCC youths have been arrested for assaulting Deputy Mayor Councillor John Manatsa, accusing him of siding with the party’s disputed interim secretary general, Sengezo Tshabangu.
The assault reportedly took place during a political meeting at the residence of recalled Beitbridge West legislator Morgan Ncube, which serves as the opposition party’s district office. The Herald detailed the incident, indicating that the deputy mayor was present at the gathering.
The suspects, Anthony Shoko (28), Winston Mugudo (25), Aaron Makumbe (24), Miller Kuwe (31), Decent Dube (35), Forget Chirenda (35), and Cosmas Chimonyo (23), have been charged with assault and theft of R2,500 and US$1,800 from the complainant during the attack.
Appearing before Beitbridge resident magistrate Takudzwa Gwazemba on Monday, the suspects were released on $300,000 bail pending trial. They were ordered to report to the nearest police station weekly and refrain from interfering with State witnesses, among other bail conditions.
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According to State representative Ronald Mugwagwa, the assault occurred on March 6 during a CCC meeting at the party offices. Shoko reportedly demanded Councillor Manatsa to leave the premises, alleging his allegiance to the faction led by Tshabangu instead of former CCC leader Nelson Chamisa.
Subsequently, the accused forcibly removed Manatsa from his seat, dragged him outside, and subjected him to physical assault, throwing him to the ground. The victim sustained back injuries and a swollen left arm during the altercation.
The accused individuals allegedly confiscated Manatsa’s belongings, including his shoes, a small bag containing money, and a cell phone. They purportedly rifled through the bag, took the cash, and discarded the items over the perimeter wall.
Following the incident, a police report was filed, leading to the arrest of the accused individuals a few days later.