Veteran actor bashed after dispute with InDrive driver

Veteran actor and filmmaker Trueman Chikukwa has alleged that he was assaulted and robbed at gunpoint following a dispute with an InDrive driver over change after a trip in Harare.

Chikukwa, who is well known for producing and starring in films based on Zimbabwean cultural beliefs, said he sustained facial injuries during the alleged assault and has since reported the matter to Waterfalls Police Station.

His wife, who was travelling with him, escaped unharmed after fleeing during the incident.

According to Chikukwa, the couple requested an InDrive vehicle from Jongwe Corner along St Patrick's Road to Waterfalls New Stands. He said the vehicle, a black Nissan Dayz, was driven by a man identified on the application as "Courage," and that he had taken a screenshot of the vehicle's details.

Recounting the incident, Chikukwa said they informed the driver before the journey that they only had a US$20 note.

"I requested an InDrive from Jongwe Corner along St Patrick's Road. The driver, whose name appeared as Courage, picked us up and I told him we only had a US$20 note and no loose change.

"He accused us of not telling him before we got into the vehicle. We gave him the US$20, but he did not give us our change," Chikukwa said.

He alleged that the driver later diverted from the expected route.

"When we asked why he had changed the route, he said he was using the easiest way. He then started talking on the phone, telling someone that he would be there shortly," he said.

Chikukwa alleged that the driver stopped at a house where a woman and another man emerged.

"The man was holding a gun and they forced us out of the vehicle. Fortunately, my wife managed to escape with the bag containing our phones.

"They assaulted me and took my wallet, which contained my national identity card and passport. Vakandirova musoro. I think they believed we had more money," he said.

Chikukwa said he suffered a swollen face as a result of the assault.

Police had not yet issued an official statement on the incident at the time of publication, and InDrive had also not publicly commented on the allegations.