Simbarashe Mandizvidza: Cop who declared himself new police boss remanded in custody

HARARE – Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Assistant Inspector Simbarashe Mandizvidza (35) who was arrested after he appeared in a widely circulated social media video declaring himself the new head of the country’s police force has been remanded in custody.

Mandizvidza, who serves as Member in Charge of the Senior Officers’ Desk at ZRP headquarters in Harare, made a 12-minute address in which he apologised to the public for strained relations with the police, promised reforms, and announced he was “taking charge” of the organisation.

He also called for the removal of Chinese nationals from Zimbabwe within 48 hours.

“Regrettably our relationship with the Zimbabwean public has not always been ideal,” he said in one video.

“For any harm or mistrust caused during the execution of our duties I wish to offer our sincere apology.

“As of today, the ZRP are committed to serving the people… In line with recent developments, I am announcing that I will be taking charge of ZRP with immediate effect with a focus to empowering young officers to lead and drive positive change within the organisation and country at large.”

The police described his actions as “treasonous” and confirmed he is facing both disciplinary action under the Police Act [Chapter 11:10] and criminal charges.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police categorically disassociates itself from the treasonous social media videos and statements issued by Assistant Inspector Simbarashe Mandizvidza,” police spokespersons said in a statement late Thursday evening.

“The errant member has since been arrested and is now facing both disciplinary charges and criminal proceedings.”

Before the release of the video, police had reportedly been seeking Mandizvidza in connection with the unauthorised use of a branded police Ford Ranger from police headquarters.

The incident has sparked debate over Mandizvidza’s mental health.

Journalist Hopewell Chin’ono criticised the ZRP for what he described as a lack of compassion, suggesting that Mandizvidza may be unwell and in need of medical assistance rather than punitive measures.

“The lack of compassion and empathy by the Zimbabwe Republic Police towards Inspector Mandizvidza is striking, but not surprising, because we have become a nation that does not show compassion towards each other at many levels, especially in politics,” Chin’ono stated.

“This man needs medical help, not persecution. It is embarrassing that an entire police force is gloating about arresting him and telling the public how it is going to punish him.

“It is embarrassing that ZRP has failed to see that their colleague needs medical help, not jackboot tactics.

“Arikurwara, and we treat those in that situation with compassion. Instead of bragging about how it will fix him, ZRP should be getting medical help for him. Have some emotional intelligence ZRP”

Police have not commented publicly on Mandizvidza’s mental state.