By Tarisai Machakaire
A Harare City Council employee who was allegedly part of a gang of protesters caught on camera while waving a Robert Mugabe Road sign that had been detached during a riot last month was dragged to court yesterday.
Spencer Mhako, 31, of New Tafara in Harare, appeared before Harare magistrate Vongai Guuriro charged with public violence.
Mhako complained that police infringed on his constitutional rights during detention as he was not promptly advised of the allegations that he was facing.
He claimed that police denied him access to food and water after refusing to identify themselves when they apprehended him.
Prosecutor Progress Maringamoyo alleged that on August 26 Mhako teamed up with protesters, who are already on remand, and others who are still at large, to hold a public gathering at Freedom Square — the open space between Rainbow Towers Hotel and Interpol offices.
Mhako then allegedly conspired with his accomplices, proceeded into the city, and caused public violence.
The court heard that Mhako and his accomplices assaulted police officers and set ablaze vendors’ stalls at Copa Cabana Bus Terminus.
It was further alleged that the rioters proceeded to stone motor vehicles belonging to Zimbabwe Republic Police, privately-owned cars and broke into shops before looting clothes and groceries.
A road sign inscribed “Robert Mugabe Rd” which was at corner Rotten Row and Robert Mugabe Road was also detached and stolen.
According to court papers, Mhako was captured on photographs at the crime scene holding the road sign.
The court heard that on September 5 this year, Mhako was arrested at his work place, City of Harare Hatfield Depot, by police officers who were tipped of his whereabouts.
The value of damage is yet to be ascertained but State concedes “it is quite significant”. Daily News