Police accused after handcuffed body found buried in pit latrine

Zimbabwean police have launched an investigation following the grim discovery of human remains buried in a pit latrine near Malalume Clinic in Bulilima District, close to the Botswana border. The remains, reportedly found with handcuffs still attached, have sparked outrage and suspicions of police involvement in the death.

The shocking find was made by local villagers who were conducting a follow-up search after the earlier discovery of a human skull in the area. Police had previously linked the skull to an unresolved case, but local residents suspected there was more to uncover.

"After the skull was found, we performed traditional rituals. Then someone said there are human remains buried nearby. When we dug further, we found the human remains with handcuffs still attached," said a villager, speaking on condition of anonymity due to fears of retaliation.

The discovery has raised serious questions about the circumstances surrounding the individual's death, particularly after villagers claimed the handcuffs resembled those typically used by the Zimbabwe Republic Police. Eyewitnesses have accused a local officer of involvement in the incident.

According to community members, the deceased was a man who had recently arrived in the area in search of employment. He reportedly worked briefly for a local family but was dismissed and later seen living on the streets. He was last seen after allegedly being apprehended by a police officer for stealing food.

"He worked briefly for a local household, but after being dismissed, he was living on the streets," a resident said. "At one point, he was caught stealing food and was reported to the police. That's the last time we saw him."

Villagers allege that the man was detained and beaten by a police officer who had a personal relationship with the complainant in the theft case. These claims, if confirmed, could point to serious misconduct and abuse of authority.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi acknowledged the seriousness of the matter and said an official statement will be issued soon.

"We are releasing a statement tomorrow (Monday) about the matter. Investigations are in progress," Nyathi told CITE.

The discovery has sent shockwaves through the local community, with many residents calling for a transparent investigation and for those responsible to be held accountable.

Human rights groups have also begun monitoring the case closely, amid growing concern about police brutality and accountability in rural communities.

As the investigation unfolds, villagers remain on edge, demanding answers and justice for the unidentified man whose life ended under suspicious and potentially criminal circumstances.