HARARE – The Zimbabwe Republic Police has moved to give assurances it has the resources to see through treatment of two detectives who were wounded in Bulawayo on Tuesday during a shootout with robbery suspect.
This follows a crowd funding initiative launched through social media by an associated private business group to help the wounded officers go through treatment.
Detective Assistant Inspector Richard Charamba, 47, and Detective Constable Albert Madziva, 41, were taken to Mpilo Hospital after a daring armed robbery suspect Simelweyinkosi Dube opened fire on them when they had confronted him in his hideout at a girlfriend’s home in Cowdray Park.
Dube is reportedly on the loose.
Following the shooting, which was confirmed in a statement by the police, the Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe issued the appeal through its chairman Ishmael Jassat.
“Today, I write to you with a heavy heart and a sense of urgency, seeking your support and assistance in a matter of utmost importance,” wrote Jassat.
“Two valiant police officers from our crack team at CID Homicide who selflessly risked their lives to protect our community were shot in the line of duty earlier today.
“Their injuries are severe, and they are in dire need of immediate surgery to ensure their recovery.”
Jassat asked for financial assistance to help the police officers.
He wrote: “The injuries sustained by these officers are grave, and the medical expenses for their surgeries and subsequent treatment are anticipated to be substantial.
“It is for this reason that I humbly appeal to you, our compassionate community, to come forward and show your solidarity by providing financial assistance to help cover their medical expenses.
“Additionally, I encourage you to spread the word within your social circles, workplaces, and community groups.
“The more people we reach, the greater the support we can provide to these officers and their families. By coming together as a united front, we can demonstrate our unwavering support for the brave men and women who risk their lives to ensure our safety.”
However, in a statement on its Twitter handle on Wednesday, the ZRP said it has the resources to treat its officers.
“The ZRP takes note of a Bulawayo Business Against Crime Forum of Zimbabwe (BACFOZ) social media appeal for medical assistance towards the treatment of the two police officers who were injured in a shootout with robbers on 1 August 2023.
“The ZRP reiterates that it has the resources and capacity to ensure that the treatment of the two members is done.
“The assistance by the BACFOZ and the Bulawayo community is part of their community policing thrust which the ZRP Command fully appreciates and acknowledges.”
