Zim Mail female photographer released with swollen hand

The Zimbabwe Mail photographer arrested and beaten by police while covering an MDC-T youth demonstration in Harare today has been discharged without charge.

The publication's editor Constantine Chimakure posted on Twitter that their lawyers had secured her release.

"Sad development. Our photojournalist assaulted and detained by police while covering an MDC demonstration.

"Our photographer Angella Jimu finally released without charge. She has a swollen hand as a result of police beatings," posted Chimakure.

"Just had a chat with our assaulted and arrested journo. Her hand badly swollen. Police mum."

Zimbabwe Union of Journalists president Michael Chideme said that the Union was appalled by this harassment of journalists and would engage authorities to put an end to this.

"We have persistently condemned any form of harassment of journalists as this compromises their safety," said Chideme.

"Such levels of intolerance and disrespect of the integrity of journalists and media practitioners is totally unacceptable."

Chideme added that it was unfortunate that several journalists had to scurry for cover during the melee.