Murder-accused cop returns to duty

Villagers in Malalume, Bulilima District, Matabeleland South, say they were living in fear and anxiety after a police officer accused of murder briefly returned to duty before being suspended again.

Constable Blessed Moyo, stationed at the Malalume police base, was arrested in May 2025 after human remains were discovered in a pit latrine behind the local clinic, which also housed the police station. The remains included a skull, bones, torn clothing, a bloodied knife, and handcuffs.

Residents said their peace of mind was shattered when Moyo returned to work in uniform.

"We could not sleep peacefully knowing he was walking around in uniform again. People were whispering in the village because no one felt safe," one resident said. Another added: "When we saw him back on duty, we felt like the case no longer mattered. Everyone was scared to even pass by the police base."

According to witnesses, the victim—accused of stealing food and clothing—was beaten with a mopane switch, sjambok, cooking stick, and plastic pick handle while in Moyo's custody. His health deteriorated, and he was never seen alive again. Months later, his skull and bones were found buried in the police base's toilet.

The officer's brief return eroded residents' trust in law enforcement. "We used to run to the police when we had problems, but when he came back, people stopped reporting cases. How do you report to someone you are afraid of?" a villager said.

Following community complaints, Moyo was suspended again and is awaiting a court hearing. Bulilima District councillor Ephraim Moyo confirmed the suspension, saying the officer's return had caused significant concern.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the case remains under judicial consideration. "The case is now before the court, so we are waiting for the court proceedings. At the moment we cannot give a comment because we do not want to interfere with court proceedings," he said.