A chaotic scuffle erupted at the gates of Zimbabwe's State House after a man reportedly lunged for a soldier's rifle, demanding to see President Emmerson Mnangagwa. The incident, which ended in an arrest and an injury, has now raised urgent questions about the man's state of mind.
The confrontation occurred around 3 p.m. on November 4th. Prosecutors allege that Moses Ruvheneko, described in court as having no fixed abode, unlawfully entered a prohibited pedestrian area on Chancellor Road, directly opposite Zimbabwe House.
He is accused of approaching a security officer stationed at the main gate and suddenly attempting to "snatch his SKS rifle."
During the struggle, Mr. Ruvheneko reportedly shouted, “Where is ED? I want to see ED.”
A Struggle at the Gate
As the guard wrestled to maintain control of his firearm, a second officer, Private Mupfumira, intervened to subdue the man.
In the ensuing scuffle, Mr. Ruvheneko sustained an injury to his left hand from the bayonet affixed to the rifle. He was successfully subdued, arrested at the scene, and later taken to Five Avenue Police Station.
“The accused was arrested while in the process of committing the offence," the State told the court, adding that "there are eyewitnesses who will testify linking him to the crime.”
Questions in the Courtroom
Appearing before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo on Thursday, Mr. Ruvheneko faces two charges: criminal trespass and disorderly conduct in a public place.
Citing the nature of the incident at the high-security location, the magistrate ordered that Mr. Ruvheneko undergo a mental examination.
He has been remanded in custody. The State successfully opposed bail, arguing that Mr. Ruvheneko has no known address or relatives and could potentially interfere with witnesses if released. - Zimbo LIVE Harare
