Magistrate fines 3 Zanu-PF youths

A Chinhoyi magistrate has fined three Zanu-PF youths who staged a demonstration in the town calling for the release of jailed businessman Mike Chimombe.

Callistus Musarurwa, Calvin Dzomba, and Trust Mazenge held a flash protest last weekend at Pfungwadzakanaka Shopping Centre, carrying placards that read "FREE MIKE CHIMOMBE 2030." The demonstration, which drew police attention, led to their arrest on Monday.

Magistrate Moreblessing Mahaso found the trio guilty of participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence. Each was sentenced to one month in prison or, alternatively, a fine of US$100.

Chimombe and his business partner Moses Mpofu were convicted in October 2025 of fraud involving US$7 million under the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. In December, the High Court handed Chimombe an effective 12-year jail term, while Mpofu received 15 years.