ZRP constable arrested for assaulting superior at roadblock

A police constable stationed at ZRP Charandura has been arrested and is currently in custody after allegedly assaulting his superior during a night roadblock operation along the Harare-Masvingo Highway, according to a police memorandum seen by CITE.

Constable James Chikuvire (38) is facing charges under Section 89 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23] for allegedly assaulting Sergeant Biggie Shoko (48) during a deployment at the 222km peg in Gweru Rural District on the night of May 10, 2025.

According to a memo issued by the Officer Commanding Midlands Province, Chikuvire was absent during the initial deployment briefing and only appeared later that evening at the roadblock site - dressed in civilian clothing and under the influence of alcohol.

"The accused was not at the Station when the team was briefed for deployment. He only appeared when the roadblock team was at Chaka Business Centre in civilian attire," the memo reads. "Complainant observed that the accused was drunk and could not be part of the roadblock team."

When Sgt Shoko instructed Chikuvire to return to the station, the constable allegedly became combative, insisting that he should be allowed to participate in the operation. His disruptive behavior prompted the officer in charge, Assistant Inspector Songozo, to temporarily call off the roadblock and order the team to return to base.

However, Chikuvire returned to the site later that night, still intoxicated and carrying a bottle of Black Label beer. "He went straight onto the middle of the road and started stopping traffic with the right hand while the left hand was holding the beer bottle," the report states.

Fearing for Chikuvire's safety, Sgt Shoko approached him to remove him from the road, but the situation escalated. Chikuvire allegedly slapped his superior twice on the face and headbutted him on the left side of the head. A second attempted headbutt missed, causing Chikuvire to fall and strike his mouth on the tarmac.

Chikuvire then reportedly tried to continue the assault but was restrained by other officers on the scene - including Sgt Kusereka and Constables Kanjera and Mugari. A Community Liaison Committee member, Dennis Muzunze, also assisted in subduing and arresting the suspect.

A formal report was filed at ZRP Charandura and Chikuvire was detained under DB 55/25. He is expected to appear at the Mvuma Magistrates Court in the coming days.

Sgt Shoko was referred to St. Theresa Hospital for medical examination and is said to be in stable condition.