The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has initiated a criminal investigation into a police officer featured in a viral video, in which he is seen being restrained by two uniformed officers while in civilian attire.
The officer, identified as Constable Foreman Matayaya, alleges that he was targeted for refusing to pay a bribe of US$5 related to a traffic violation. The footage depicts Matayaya being held down while he clutches a pair of handcuffs, resisting arrest.
In the video, he urges the person filming to continue recording, claiming he is being victimized for rejecting the bribe.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi addressed these allegations, cautioning against the misuse of social media to disseminate misleading narratives about the police. He stated:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned about the exploitation of social media by both officers and the public to create negative perceptions of real events. This often serves specific agendas and misleads the public with inaccurate information.”
The ZRP is committed to thorough investigations to uncover the truth, assuring that legal action will be taken against those found at fault.
Nyathi further explained that the viral video pertains to an incident in Mutare, where Matayaya was involved in a traffic accident involving three vehicles.
Constable Andrew Mazhindu was on the scene and instructed the drivers to report to the police station. After Matayaya refused to comply, he became aggressive upon arrival at the station, insisting that Mazhindu favored the other drivers.
Matayaya allegedly assaulted Mazhindu and caused damage to police property while making false accusations. He was ultimately arrested, and both criminal and disciplinary actions are being pursued against him.
The ZRP strongly condemns Matayaya’s behavior and the misinformation surrounding the viral video.