Two Harare Men Jailed for Assaulting a Peace Officer During an Eviction Dispute

Harare – Two men from Harare have been sentenced to prison after assaulting a peace officer during an eviction operation in Waterfalls, in a case highlighting rising tensions around property disputes in the capital. Thulani Nyamhunga (18) and Kudakwashe Masusa (25) appeared before the Mbare Magistrates Court, where they were convicted of assaulting a peace officer. The court sentenced both men to 20 months imprisonment, with six months suspended on condition of good behaviour, leaving an effective 14-month jail term.

The court heard that the incident occurred on October 9, 2025, at around 10:30 am in Stoneridge Park, where a team of officials was carrying out an eviction. Peace officer Charles Chikosa was on duty alongside colleagues Jeteri Rugube, Nyasha Madamombe, Marcus Name, Farai Marwa, Kunyenya Nyika, Tafadzwa Potoria, Tatenda Sithole, and Blessed Saymore Mushowe. During the operation, Nyamhunga and Masusa reportedly arrived at the scene in a white Toyota Wish and a Honda Fit, accompanied by other individuals who are still at large.

Prosecutors told the court that the group resisted the eviction and attacked Chikosa using sticks and tree branches. The accused allegedly demanded that the officer leave the premises, claiming ownership of the property. They also forced him to return items that had already been removed during the eviction process. Despite the violent encounter, the court noted that Chikosa did not sustain visible injuries and was not medically examined.

Following the incident, Chikosa reported the matter to the police, leading to the arrest of the two accused. The court found sufficient evidence to convict both men, emphasising the seriousness of assaulting law enforcement personnel during official duties.

Legal experts say the case reflects increasing confrontations linked to evictions and land disputes in Harare’s high-density suburbs.

“Assaulting peace officers undermines the rule of law and cannot be tolerated, regardless of the underlying dispute,” said a Harare-based legal analyst.

Authorities have urged members of the public to resolve disputes through legal channels rather than resorting to violence.

Harare assault case