By Latwell Nyangu
Dendera music godfather Madzibaba Allan Chimbetu was on Wednesday handcuffed at the Ximex Mall in Harare while trying to sell a mobile phone.
The Orchestra Dendera Kings (Central Committee) paymaster was nabbed by police detectives in plain clothes around 3pm in the midst of a transaction, attracting passers-by. The lanky guitarist was selling a Samsung Galaxy for US$600, it has been established.
A source close to the goings on, said Allan was taken to Harare Central Police Station where he was released after paying US$10 admission of guilt fine.
“He came here while trying to sell his mobile phone and he was unlucky after being nabbed. Abva angoita mahwekwe nemangonjo,” said a mole.
When journalists arrived at the scene Allan was being escorted to Harare Central police Station. He even threatened to retaliate to the cop who was about to apply minimum force as he resisted arrest.
“Ukandirova ndokudzosera,” declared Allan. (I will retaliate if you beat me).
During the confrontation with the cops, Allan tried to negotiate but his efforts were in vain.
“I bought this cell phone from a legal deal and if you want to know the person, I can go and show you where I bought it.
The cops blasted him for trying to use his status in a bid to evade arrest.
“When we arrested you, you were cooperating, isu hatina basa kuti ndiwe ani.”
According to the mole, Allan arrived at the premises around 3pm with the intention of selling his cell phone. Efforts to get a comment from Allan proved futile as his mobile phone went unanswered.
Allan was arrested under the police operation meant to rid the city of illicit deals. Code named Operation Restore Order, illegal dealers that have flooded Ximex Mall, Gulf Shopping Complex, Copacabana and Magaba Flyover in Mbare are being arrested.
The illegal dealers have been blocking free movement of people, which is an offence in itself, according to police. H Metro
