HARARE – Police setting of dogs at protesting learners at St Faith Mission is unacceptable and inhumane, outspoken Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has said.
Police in Rusape on Wednesday last week set dogs on hordes of students at St Faith’s Mission who were protesting the Anglican church-run institution’s decision to impose a US$600 mission fund on each student starting this term.
A short video clip of the incident, which went viral on social media, showed students flee as dog handlers pursued them.
One unfortunate student was seen being attacked by the canine.
Reacting to the incident, ARTUZ described the incident as a crime scene.
“The authorities went even further by hiring the Zimbabwe Republic Police, who deployed police dogs to attack innocent souls.
“This is nothing short of a crime scene and a grave violation of human rights. The authorities’ response to this demonstration was inhumane and unacceptable.”
The union blamed the government for the collapse of the economy which has had ripple effects on parents’ capacity to afford fees, let alone pay extra for tuition.
“We strongly condemn the reprehensible actions of the authorities at St Faiths Mission School and the State, who unleashed dogs on peacefully demonstrating school children for their right to education.
“This incident is a clear reflection of bad economic management and highlights the need for the government to take immediate action to address the deteriorating state of the economy.
“We call on the government to investigate this incident thoroughly, hold those responsible accountable, and take immediate steps to address the economic mismanagement that has led to such dire circumstances.
“It is the government’s duty to protect its citizens and ensure their well-being, and failure to do so demonstrates a dereliction of responsibility,” it said.
Following the incident, police confirmed on X (formerly Twitter) that the matter was under investigation.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police has taken note of a viral social media clip on alleged St Faith High School students and ZRP clashes and use of police dogs during a purported pupils demonstration.
“Full details on the incident will be availed once the Officer Commanding Police Manicaland Province conducts full inquiry and briefs the Commissioner-General of Police on what actually transpired,” police said.
Tension has followed the church school in the past few days.
Last week, a reverend allegedly assaulted a man with a disability who was seeking an audience with the school administration.
