DNA tests confirm MDC activist's dumped body

DNA tests results have confirmed that the remains found at a farm in Beatrice, in January were that of MDC activist Blessing Toronga, who was reportedly abducted and tortured during the State-led clampdown in the aftermath of the anti-government protests, the family has said.

Toronga was a known MDC activist in Glen Norah, Harare, and his body was found in a state of decomposition more than a month after he was allegedly abducted on January 24.

The body was found dumped near Beatrice and was then ferried to Chitungwiza General Hospital by the police. His family only knew about it on March 10 when he was about to be given a pauper's burial.

DNA tests were then instituted and confirmed that the remains were that of Toronga.

His sister Norah, confirmed that the tests were positive and burial arrangements were underway.

"We received the DNA results last Friday and we are in the process of organising the burial," she said.

Meanwhile, the family of the late Kelvin Choto, who was shot by police in Chitungwiza in January said they will be holding a memorial service on Friday where pro-democracy campaigners are expected to speak against State brutality.

Kelvin's father, Julius, said the memorial service will be graced by officials from the main opposition MDC Alliance, some embassies and human rights defenders.

"They have shown sympathy to us throughout our grieving time," he said.