Man disarms soldier at State House while demanding to see Mnangagwa

A Harare man, Moses Ruvheneko, was remanded in custody on Thursday after appearing in court for allegedly attempting to disarm a security officer stationed at Zimbabwe House, the official residence of President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Ruvheneko, who has no fixed abode, faces two counts - criminal trespass and disorderly conduct in a public place - in violation of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].

Appearing before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo, Ruvheneko was ordered to undergo a mental examination to determine his fitness to stand trial.

According to the State, the incident occurred on November 4, 2025, at around 3pm when Ruvheneko allegedly entered a restricted zone along Chancellor Road, directly opposite Zimbabwe House, where pedestrian movement is prohibited.

Prosecutors said he then approached a security officer at the main gate and suddenly tried to snatch his SKS rifle, shouting, "Where is ED? I want to see ED."

A struggle ensued before another guard, Private Mupfumira, assisted in subduing the suspect. During the scuffle, Ruvheneko sustained a hand injury from the rifle's bayonet.

"The accused was arrested while in the process of committing the offence, and there are eyewitnesses who will testify linking him to the crime," the prosecution told the court.

He was later taken to Five Avenue Police Station, where a formal report was lodged. The State opposed bail, citing Ruvheneko's lack of a fixed address and the potential risk of interference with witnesses.

Ruvheneko remains in custody pending further proceedings.