The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of Assistant Inspector Simbarashe Mandizvidza, who went viral on social media after posting videos in which he allegedly claimed to have taken control of the national police force.
Mandizvidza, described by authorities as a “rogue policeman,” now faces a dual legal challenge: disciplinary action under the Police Act [Chapter 11:10] and criminal prosecution, which may include charges of treason.
In a strongly worded statement, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi condemned Mandizvidza’s actions, making clear that the police institution distances itself from his claims.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police categorically disassociates itself from the treasonous social media videos and statements issued by Assistant Inspector Simbarashe Mandizvidza,” Commissioner Nyathi said. “The errant member has since been arrested and is now facing both disciplinary charges and criminal proceedings. The Commissioner-General of Police, Stephen Mutamba, assures the public that the ZRP will continue serving the people of Zimbabwe and the country’s leadership in line with its constitutional mandate.”
The arrest comes after Mandizvidza posted multiple videos that quickly drew public attention. In these recordings, he allegedly declared that he had assumed command of the ZRP and issued a series of ultimatums, including directing all Chinese nationals in the country to leave within 48 hours. The videos, which have since gone viral on platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook, and X, also reportedly contained warnings that any attempt to arrest him could trigger conflict.
In one particularly striking video, Mandizvidza is heard saying in Shona: “Hapana munhu anorowa, vanhu vachafamba zvakanaka, vagobuda. If you really love your country, support me.” The statement, translated, implied that citizens should comply with his directives to avoid potential unrest.
‘Rogue’ Police Officer Mandizvidza Arrested After Viral Videos Claiming Takeover of ZRP
Authorities have not disclosed the full content of Mandizvidza’s videos but emphasised that his actions constitute a serious threat to national security. Legal experts note that publicly claiming control over a state security institution can fall under treason or incitement, particularly when accompanied by threats of unrest or ultimatums targeting foreign nationals.
The ZRP statement made it clear that Mandizvidza’s actions are being treated as both a disciplinary breach and a criminal matter. Under the Police Act, officers are required to maintain loyalty to the institution and adhere strictly to the chain of command. Violations of this nature can result in dismissal, demotion, and criminal charges if the conduct also breaches national security statutes.
Observers say the incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in the digital era, where social media allows rogue elements to broadcast provocative content rapidly, reaching thousands of viewers within hours. In Mandizvidza’s case, the videos prompted widespread speculation and concern, amplifying the urgency of police action.
The Commissioner-General, Stephen Mutamba, has reassured the public and the police rank-and-file that the ZRP remains firmly under legitimate command. “The integrity and professionalism of our members remain paramount,” he said in a separate briefing. “Acts of individual misconduct will be dealt with according to the law, but they do not reflect the institution as a whole.”
Mandizvidza’s motivations remain unclear. Some analysts speculate that the videos may have been intended as a form of protest or attention-seeking, while others warn that they pose a genuine threat to public order, given the explicit references to ultimatums and potential conflict. Authorities are reportedly investigating his background, recent conduct, and possible collaborators to determine whether his actions were entirely self-directed or part of a larger scheme.
The case has sparked public debate on the power of social media in Zimbabwe, especially in relation to sensitive state institutions. While platforms like Facebook, X, and WhatsApp allow for rapid information sharing, they also create risks when individuals disseminate false or provocative content that can undermine public trust or incite unrest.
For now, Mandizvidza remains in custody as investigations proceed. Police say that both criminal and disciplinary processes will run concurrently, with outcomes ranging from prosecution in the courts to administrative sanctions within the ZRP.
The situation serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities held by security personnel and the potential consequences when officers breach institutional protocols. Zimbabweans across the country are watching closely as authorities navigate a case that combines elements of law enforcement discipline, national security, and the unprecedented role of social media in spreading provocative claims.
Source- ZimEye
