News / National
Zimbabwe cop severely assaults till operator over change
07 May 2025 at 16:58hrs | Views
A Beitbridge-based police officer has been charged with attempted murder after he allegedly struck a till operator with a beer bottle during a dispute over change for a US$20 note.
Ziggie Khonzani (32) appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Charity Maphosa on Wednesday, facing serious charges stemming from a violent incident that occurred late Monday night at a local restaurant.
According to prosecutors, Khonzani entered the establishment just before closing time intending to buy groceries worth US$3. The till operator, 27-year-old Valentine Venge, informed him that there was no change available for the US$20 bill.
Khonzani then reportedly attempted to increase his purchase amount to US$5 and later US$10 in hopes of making the transaction easier, but Venge stood firm, advising him to find change elsewhere. This reportedly enraged the off-duty officer, who allegedly smashed a beer bottle on Venge's face, seriously injuring his ear and lower jaw.
The victim was immediately rushed to Beitbridge District Hospital, where he received medical attention for deep lacerations and other injuries. Hospital sources described the injuries as serious but non-life-threatening.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, with many expressing concern over increasing cases of violence perpetrated by individuals tasked with upholding the law.
Khonzani was remanded in custody, and the case has been postponed to a later date for further proceedings. Police authorities are yet to issue an official comment on the incident, and it remains unclear whether Khonzani will face internal disciplinary measures in addition to the criminal charges.
The matter continues to highlight growing concerns over abuse of power by some members of the security forces and the need for strict enforcement of accountability within law enforcement agencies.
Ziggie Khonzani (32) appeared before Beitbridge regional magistrate Charity Maphosa on Wednesday, facing serious charges stemming from a violent incident that occurred late Monday night at a local restaurant.
According to prosecutors, Khonzani entered the establishment just before closing time intending to buy groceries worth US$3. The till operator, 27-year-old Valentine Venge, informed him that there was no change available for the US$20 bill.
Khonzani then reportedly attempted to increase his purchase amount to US$5 and later US$10 in hopes of making the transaction easier, but Venge stood firm, advising him to find change elsewhere. This reportedly enraged the off-duty officer, who allegedly smashed a beer bottle on Venge's face, seriously injuring his ear and lower jaw.
The incident has sparked outrage among local residents, with many expressing concern over increasing cases of violence perpetrated by individuals tasked with upholding the law.
Khonzani was remanded in custody, and the case has been postponed to a later date for further proceedings. Police authorities are yet to issue an official comment on the incident, and it remains unclear whether Khonzani will face internal disciplinary measures in addition to the criminal charges.
The matter continues to highlight growing concerns over abuse of power by some members of the security forces and the need for strict enforcement of accountability within law enforcement agencies.
Source - newsday
