ZRP Denies Issuing Statement On Douglas Coltart Assault Suspects

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says it never issued a widely circulated statement regarding alleged suspects linked to the assault of lawyer and politician Douglas Coltart. In a statement issued on Monday, May 11, police warned the public against relying on fake press releases being circulated online under the ZRP name.

Authorities said investigations were now underway to identify individuals responsible for creating and distributing the false statements.

“The police are fully aware of these activities and investigations are currently underway to identify the people responsible for creating and distributing the fake statements,” the ZRP said.

The police urged Zimbabweans to verify information through official ZRP communication channels and cautioned that legal action would be taken against individuals spreading false information.

“The public is urged to rely only on official communication channels for accurate information,” police said.

“The law will take its course against anyone found responsible for publishing or circulating false information, regardless of where those individuals are located.”

The statement comes amid growing debate online following the circulation of an alleged police press release connected to the assault case involving Coltart.

The disputed statement, widely shared on social media, claimed police were searching for individuals identified as Luckmore Gapa and Nicholas Hamadziripi. It also referenced a group calling itself the “Presidential Mafia” and claimed authorities had added social media personality Majaira Jairosi to a wanted list. The fake statement further alleged police had arrested individuals identified as Takunda Mhuka, Emmanuel Sitima and Godfrey Karembera.

However, the ZRP has now formally dismissed the document as fraudulent. Majaira Jairosi had earlier shared the statement on X before police publicly distanced themselves from it.

Despite denying the circulating statement, police have not yet issued an official update regarding the investigation into Coltart’s assault. The incident, which was captured on video and widely circulated online, sparked public outrage and political debate. Reports circulating on social media alleged that individuals linked to ZANU PF were involved in the confrontation, although authorities have not officially confirmed identities or charges.

Political analysts say the spread of fake statements under the names of state institutions reflects growing concerns around misinformation and political disinformation on social media platforms. Harare-based media researcher Tendai Chikova said false statements can easily inflame political tensions.

“When fake police statements begin circulating during politically sensitive incidents, it creates confusion, undermines public trust and complicates legitimate investigations,” he said.

The incident highlights the increasing challenge faced by authorities and media organisations in verifying information shared online, particularly during politically charged events. Cybersecurity and media experts say fake government statements have become more sophisticated, often mimicking official formatting and branding to appear authentic. The ZRP says investigations into the origins of the fake statement are continuing.

Douglas Coltart assault