Cop nabbed over shooting at minister Mpofu’s residence

By Bridget Mananavire

HARARE – A police officer has been arrested in connection with a shooting incident at minister of Macro-Economic Planning and Investment Promotion, Obert Mpofu’s Newlands residence over the weekend.

The officer Lloyd Salobe, 29, is being charged with attempted murder after he shot his female colleague who was on guard duty at the residence in the stomach.

The shooting occurred after a dispute between the two, resulting in the female officer being hospitalised because of the injuries she sustained when she was shot.

Police spokesperson Charity Charamba, who is the chief staff officer (press and public relations), confirmed the incident yesterday.

“The ZRP would like to confirm the arrest of a rogue police officer constable Llyod Salobe aged 29, for contravening section 47 of the Criminal Law Codification and Reform Act, Chapter 9.32 of attempted murder.

“The member is facing disciplinary proceedings under the Police Act chapter 11.10. Constable Salobe shot his colleague who was at a point of guard after a misunderstanding,” Charamba said.

According to the police the victim is “a female police officer aged 21, and is presently admitted at Parirenyatwa hospital”.

Charamba said the victim, who went under surgery at the weekend, had a bullet lodged in her large intestines.

“The accused is currently in custody and will appear in court soon. The ZRP will not brook any malcontents within its rank and file. Police will ensure that the law takes its course on this rogue element.”

Earlier reports, however, had suggested the police officers had been injured during a raid at the minister’s home. Daily News