Suspected hookers who assaulted photo journalist remanded in custody

HARARE – Five suspected commercial sex workers together with a hired commuter omnibus driver who reportedly attacked a local photo-journalist openly wept in court after they were remanded in custody.

Natasha Karavhina (18), Talent Marwa (24), Netsai Madzvova (21), Rejoice Cement, Cythia Mtsisi (25) along with driver Croson Moyo all stood in the dock facing charges of assault and malicious damage to property.

The matter was heard at the Mbare Magistrate court on Friday. The suspects allegedly destroyed a camera worth thousands of dollars. They are alleged to have teamed up with several others who are still on the run.

After magistrate Rueben Mukavhi announced that there was no freedom for them the suspected ladies of the night wept uncontrollably in court as they were leaving the court room heading for remand prison.

Allegations are that on June 13, at around 12.30pm photo-journalists Tawanda Bote teamed up with Arron Nyamayaro and went to Kuwadzana 7 where they intended to discharge their duties.

The mishap occurred at the popular place called kumagumtrees where the pair intended to take some pictures. The State alleges that hookers had accompanied their colleague one Fungai who had lost her sanity so they had visited the prophet at his shrine.

While at the shrine, Tawanda began to take some pictures from a distance before Madzibaba Enguwo Tsvuku’s aides saw him taking some pictures. He then questioned the ‘clients’ if they were in the company of the photographers.

Immediately, the hookers who were approximately 18 in number pounced on the photographers. It is alleged that they both ran for their dear lives but it was unfortunate for Tawanda who failed to outpace the mob and was attacked while Arron escaped.

While he was running, the hookers shouted “mbavha” inviting some passersby to join hands and manhandle Tawanda. They allegedly attacked him several times and all his efforts to identify himself as a journalist were ignored.

Further allegations are the suspected hookers were demanding the camera citing that he (Tawanda) and Arron had been taking pictures of them and they wanted to attack them.

As a result of the assault Tawanda sustained serious injuries as evidenced by medical affidavit which will be produced in court. The damaged camera was valued at US$ 4 300. A report was made to the police leading to the arrest of the six while others are still at large.