12 MDC-T activists remanded in custody on murder charges

Twelve MDC-T activists today appeared at the Harare Magistrates' Courts facing murder charges and were remanded in custody on allegations of killing a police inspector who was murdered in Glen View, Harare on Sunday.

MDC-T says the fate of the other 12 activists who were arrested this week is unknown as they were not brought to court and had not been released from Harare Central Police Station by the end of day despite assurances by the police that they will be released today.

Most of the MDC-T activists who appeared in court today had visible injuries and were limping.

Among those who were brought to court are Last Maengahama and his three brothers, Stanley, Edison and Lazarus.  Last Maengahama is a National Executive Committee member.  Other activists who were in court are; Councilor Tungamirai Madzokere and Yvonne Musarurwa.

While in custody the accused were severely allegedly assaulted by the police, denied access to food, family members and legal representation until yesterday.

Magistrate Kubomera ordered the Attorney General to investigate the torture and said the twelve should be given immediate medical treatment.

They were ordered to apply for bail at the High Court and will appear for further remand on 17 June.