*_MORNING NEWS | 13 JUNE 2025_* *_Join our Group:_* https://chat.whatsapp.com/LDUL4HF8Hyo4MaUUiGXvKz *TO ADVERTISE WITH WAZO ADVERTS* *_WhatsApp:_* wa.me/263776804293 *_We have a market reach of over 400,000 Zimbabweans._* — — — — — — — — — — — — *1.* Government warned against unilaterally changing teachers’ vacation leave *2.* US$250 per pint – NBSZ defends high blood prices amid public outcry *3.* Court declares section of Patriot Act unconstitutional *4.* Zambia’s president Hichilema “not wanted anywhere near body” of ex-president Edgar Lungu – says family *5.* Government squeezes miners for more forex *6.* Mutare introduces US$5,000 fine for littering *7.* Former Agriculture deputy minister claims Zanu PF rivals are targeting him for successive election defeats *8.* World’s luckiest man – How did Ramesh survive plane crash that killed over 241 people yesterday *9.* Harare councillors fight undervaluing land compensated to Chiyangwa's Pinnacle Holdings *10.* “If it’s that easy, go ahead and do it” Madam Boss’ glamorous BET visit defended *11.* Police officers stood by and watched as Ruwa constable beat suspect to death – Shocking details emerge *12.* Police destroy dangerous drugs *13.* Milton High School teacher granted bail amid sodomy charges *14.* Teen sentenced to life for brutally killing aunt in cold blood before raping her corpse *15.* 14-year-old boy from London sues parents who tricked him into moving to Ghana for school *16.* Bulawayo man sentenced for stealing US$2,700 to fund gambling spree *_FULL ARTICLES BELOW_* _[Note: These News Articles were Compiled and Distributed by Wazo Adverts. Source is Credited at the End of Each Article.]_ 1. *GOVERNMENT WARNED AGAINST UNILATERALLY CHANGING TEACHERS’ VACATION LEAVE* The government has announced the reviewing of teachers leave, amid concerns regarding the move. In a letter addressed to all Provincial Education Directors, the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education announced the move. However, the Amalgamated Rural Teachers Union of Zimbabwe (ARTUZ) has warned against what it describes as the unilateral reviewing of teachers leave. Posting on its X handle, ARTUZ said vacation leave is a condition of service whose terms can not be unilaterally changed by the employer. “Vacation leave is a condition of service whose terms cannot be unilaterally altered by the employer. “We implore the Public Service Commission (PSC) to do the right thing and properly engage all registered Teacher Unions in line with section 203 (1) (b) read with section 65 (5),” said ARTUZ. The teacher ls body added that both the PSC and the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education seem to have been hijacked by some unrepentant recidivists. “The slave attitude mentality has to be forcibly exorcised from their mindsets,” added ARTUZ. *_-ZwNews_* 2. *US$250 PER PINT – NBSZ DEFENDS HIGH BLOOD PRICES AMID PUBLIC OUTCRY* The National Blood Services of Zimbabwe (NBSZ) is defending the high cost of blood amid public criticism. As Zimbabwe prepares to mark World Blood Donor Day on June 14, the National Blood Services Zimbabwe (NBSZ) is under fire over the high cost of blood, with some private institutions reportedly charging up to US$1,000 per pint. NBSZ, however, insists it only makes a small profit, just US$5 per pint. The organisation says the standard price is capped at US$250 and that public hospitals receive blood for free because the government covers the cost. In a statement to ZimLive, the blood service explained how the US$250 price tag comes about. “We operate on a cost recovery basis, meaning that we recover exactly what it costs us to collect, process and distribute the blood. That entire chain is made up of activities whose cumulative cost is currently US$245; thus, we charge US$250 to cater for normal process losses,” NBSZ said. Social activist Freeman Chari believes the cost of a pint of blood shouldn’t be anywhere near US$250. He broke down the costs based on his understanding of blood bank operations and argued that if done efficiently, it shouldn’t exceed US$100. He pointed out that even NBSZ’s own CEO, Lucy Marowa, previously said in 2019 that the real cost was US$120. Chari also questioned why a public service would add such a steep markup, saying: “A government for the people can subsidise that. That’s what governments do.” Vicky Maponga, spokesperson for NBSZ, responded to the backlash by explaining that although blood is donated, the process of making it safe for use is far from free. She said donated blood must go through screening, separation, storage and distribution — all of which must meet international health standards. These steps are what make the process costly. Maponga also reminded the public that since 2018, the government has been paying for blood given to public hospitals. That means patients in those institutions get it for free. Only private patients pay the US$250, which goes toward sustaining the blood service. NBSZ CEO Lucy Marowa shared positive news about blood collection. She said their campaigns have been working and they expect to collect 97,500 units of blood this year — the highest yet. *_-iHarare_* 3. *COURT DECLARES SECTION OF PATRIOT ACT UNCONSTITUTIONAL* The High Court has declared a section of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, also known as the Patriot Act, unconstitutional. High Court judge Justice Rodgers Manyangadze ruled in favour of the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe (MAZ) and journalist Zenzele Ndebele, arguing that some sections of the Act infringed on their constitutional rights. They cited Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs minister Ziyambi Ziyambi and Attorney-General, Virginia Mabhiza, as respondents. The duo argued that section 22A(3) of the Act is vague and infringed on sections 61, 58, 67, 39 and 20 of the Constitution. The sections guarantee the right to freedom of expression, association and assembly, right to vote and stand for political office, as well as provide grounds for which citizenship may be revoked. The applicants sought the declaration of constitutional invalidity of section 22A, and impugnment of terms such as "agents, proxies or entities" of a foreign government. They also unsuccessfully sought impugnment of terms such as "wilfully injuring the sovereignty and national interest of Zimbabwe.” The applicants argued that the terms are not defined with sufficient clarity and are, consequently, unconstitutional. They submitted that “subverting, upsetting, overthrowing or overturning a constitutional government in Zimbabwe” was also not defined with sufficient clarity and, therefore, unconstitutional. They argued that section 22A(2) is broadly worded and as such has high potential for abuse and misuse and was meant to silence dissenting voices. They further argued that section 22A(3) is equally vague, overbroad and infringes on sections 58, 61 and 67(3)(a) of the Constitution. Justice Manyangadze ruled that section 22A(3) was vague. “This vagueness, imprecision or ambiguity, in my opinion, provides a reasonable basis for the constitutional invalidity of s22A(3),” the ruling read. "A penalty of imprisonment of up to 20 years for publishing or communicating a false statement realising that there is a real risk or possibility of undermining public confidence in a security service institution is draconian. "The application for a declaration of constitutional invalidity in respect of section 22A(3) of the Criminal Law Code be and is hereby granted and section 22A(3) of the Criminal Law Code be and is hereby declared to be constitutionally invalid as it infringes sections 39, 58, 61(1) and 67(3) of the Constitution." The judge, however, said the applicants failed to substantiate their claims on the vagueness of other sections of the Act. “In the circumstances, it is ordered that the application for a declaration of constitutional invalidity in respect of section 22A(2) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], as amended by the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Amendment Act No 10 of 2023, (“the Criminal Law Code”) be and is hereby dismissed.” *_-Newsday_* 4. *ZAMBIA’S PRESIDENT HICHILEMA “NOT WANTED ANYWHERE NEAR BODY” OF EX-PRESIDENT EDGAR LUNGU – SAYS FAMILY* Zambia’s late former President Edgar Lungu left strict instructions that President Hakainde Hichilema “should not be anywhere near” his body, according to his family. This was revealed by the family’s spokesperson, lawyer Makebi Zulu, who said the wishes of the deceased must be respected. Speaking in a video released from South Africa on 12 June 2025, Mr Zulu said: “At the said meetings between government and the family, it was made known that the family had already put in place all logistics to address the wishes of the deceased… and that President Hakainde Hichilema should not be anywhere near the body of President Edgar Chagwa Lungu for reasons that become common cause.” The 68-year-old ex-president died on 5 June in South Africa. His body has not yet been repatriated due to an ongoing dispute between his family and the government over funeral arrangements. The Zambian government had planned a state funeral for Lungu. However, his family insists on conducting a private ceremony, in accordance with the late leader’s final wishes. Mr Zulu added that the family had become frustrated with the government’s shifting stance: “The family finds it difficult to continue engaging with the Government, which has preset conditions that suggest that the family has no say in fundamental issues relating to the manner the deceased is to be mourned.” Foreign Affairs Minister Mulambo Haimbe, who led a delegation to South Africa, responded by urging unity and respect. Speaking to local journalists in Lusaka, Mr Haimbe said: “While the family’s wishes are noted, President Lungu was a leader of all Zambians. I’m sure all of us would want to have a fitting send-off.” The family has denied that its stance is politically motivated. According to Mr Zulu, their position is rooted in deeply held beliefs and instructions left by the late president. He explained: “Matters of conscience for both the deceased and the family should not be sacrificed at the altar of convenience.” In a statement posted on Facebook by GrindStone Television Zambia on 12 June, the family further appealed for public understanding and stated that Lungu’s final wishes must be honoured. “The family emphasized that their position is not political but rather a matter of conscience and fidelity to the former president’s final instructions.” Mr Zulu also said that the family would keep the public informed of any changes: “The family will continue to inform the public of any alternative arrangements.” Public mourning descends into confusion The dispute has caused widespread confusion in Zambia, where official mourning was declared for seven days starting on Saturday 7 June 2025. However, the Patriotic Front (PF) party, which Lungu led, had already announced its own mourning programme a day earlier. The government selected a lodge in Lusaka as the official venue for mourners, while the PF directed supporters to gather at its headquarters instead. Constitutional lawyer John Sangwa told the BBC that the ongoing tug-of-war highlighted the need for legislation to govern funeral procedures for heads of state. Mr Sangwa said: “This tug-of-war only highlights the need for a clear law outlining how ex-presidents should be mourned.” Edgar Lungu served as Zambia’s sixth Republican President from 2015 to 2021. He briefly stepped away from politics after losing to Hakainde Hichilema in 2021, but later returned as a key figure in the opposition Patriotic Front before being barred by the Constitutional Court from running again. As the stand-off continues, it remains unclear when or how Lungu’s body will be returned to Zambia. *_-iHarare_* 5. *GOVERNMENT SQUEEZES MINERS FOR MORE FOREX* Government departments are intensifying demands for miners to pay taxes and fees in foreign currency — on top of the mandatory 30% surrender of export earnings — further straining the industry’s already pressured forex inflows, the industry body has said. Zimbabwe’s mining industry badly needs significant capital injection, with the gold sector alone needing US$1 billion in capex, according to the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe (CoMZ). The pressure from the government also comes at a time when the Mines and Mining Development ministry has embarked on an aggressive campaign to ensure that gold deliveries for the year reach 40 tonnes. Part of these efforts includes offering small-scale gold miners, who contribute more than 60% of gold production, 5% for every 500 grammes of gold delivered to Fidelity Gold Refinery. “The foreign currency retentions are under disproportionate pressure as suppliers of goods and services, including some government departments, including Zesa (power utility), are demanding payments exclusively in foreign currency,” CoMZ chief executive officer Isaac Kwesu told the Zimbabwe Independent in an interview. “With most mining companies undertaking expansion projects while some are spending on beneficiation facilities. “The available foreign currency falls far short of the requirements of the mining industry. As a result, mining companies are optimising their operations to align with the available forex while some capital projects are being reconsidered in view of the foreign currency shortfalls.” He said the 30% surrender portion continued to lose value due to disparities between the official and the parallel market exchange rate. “Mining companies receive the surrender portion at the official rate at a time local inputs are priced at a depreciated parallel market rate,” Kwesu added. “The resulting parallel market premium is akin to an implicit tax on exporters, which impacts negatively on the viability of mining projects.” He said the chamber had been engaging the government with a view to reducing pressure on retentions by making the payments for electricity bills and taxes in line with the forex retention framework. Kwesu added that these proposals also included ensuring that mining companies can procure inputs from suppliers at the prevailing official exchange rate. Suppliers often exercise “forward pricing” in offering goods and services in the procurement process. Forward pricing involves setting prices for goods and services on anticipated future costs rather than current ones, a move taken owing to continued exchange rate volatility. “The chamber continues to advocate for a competitive fiscal framework for the mining industry that is benchmarked to regional and international best practice,” Kwesu said. “Such a tax framework will not only restore the viability of mining projects but also improve the competitiveness of Zimbabwe as a destination for investments into the mining sector. “We believe that with further information sharing and engagements with authorities, there is huge scope and opportunity for a review of the current fiscal framework to align it with best practice.” Mining is one of two industries, the other being agriculture, that generates the majority of Zimbabwe’s foreign currency, which has been on a decline in recent years. The decline is owing to massive public debt, making Zimbabwe ineligible to access fresh lending in most markets, as well as corruption, exchange volatility, high current account deficit, informalisation and liquidity shortages. In its recent country brief of Zimbabwe, the African Export-Import Bank noted that Zimbabwe’s growth performance has been driven by expansions in agriculture, mining activities, and services fuelled by remittances. “In 2024, mining represented more than 60% of Zimbabwe’s total export earnings, with gold, the largest contributor, generating approximately US$2,5 billion,” the bank said. “Platinum production, driven by key players such as Mimosa and Zimplats, accounted for around US$1,8 billion, while diamond mining, particularly from the Marange fields, generated about US$420 million. “Lithium, an emerging sector in Zimbabwe, saw significant growth, with exports reaching US$210 million, fuelled by increasing global demand for battery minerals.” The bank added that coal production, although primarily used for domestic use, contributed to the country’s energy security and accounted for approximately US$150 million in revenue. It also revealed Zimbabwe was shifting its diplomatic and economic ties to China, Russia and South Africa in response to Western-targeted sanctions. “China has become a key partner, providing significant investments in infrastructure, mining, and energy projects,” the bank said. *_-Newsday_* 6. *MUTARE INTRODUCES US$5,000 FINE FOR LITTERING* Littering in undesignated areas within the City of Mutare will attract a substantial fine of US$5 000 under the new by-laws currently being drafted by the local authority, The Manica Post has established. By-laws are localised laws that govern specific council areas, addressing various issues such as land use, waste management, and public health. Local authorities are expected to regularly review and update their by-laws to reflect changes in community needs, legal requirements, and best practices. Accordingly, Mutare City Council is currently engaged in the consultation process to update its by-laws. The consultation process, which invites residents and ratepayers to provide input, is set to be concluded by the end of this month. The by-law update process involves public consultations, legal review, and council approval before the bylaws are enacted. Under the Anti-Litter section, the proposed by-laws indicate that anyone found littering in undesignated areas will be liable to a fine of US$5 000. “City of Mutare (Anti-Litter) By-Laws, 2025: Any person who contravenes any provision of these by-laws shall be liable to a fine specified in the First Schedule. Fails to provide an adequate number of bins in and around his or her area of business (US$20). Depositing litter in any public place (US$5 000). Sweeps any waste into a gutter, road reserve or road culvert (US$20). Disturbs anything in, or removes anything from any receptacles, which has been placed for purposes of collecting litter (US$10). “Fails to pick up any litter which, in the exercise of his or her business, has fallen on any public place — US$5. Refuses to comply with an instruction issued by an authorised person in terms of Section 4(2) (US$50). Deposits or abandons or causes or permits to be deposited or abandoned any form of litter in a public place (US$100).” The proposed by-law defines litter as any substance or object, whether solid, liquid, or gaseous, that is discarded, abandoned, or deposited in a public place or other area, including, but not limited to paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, metal, or other materials. “Litter includes any diapers, containers, wrappings, cartons, cigarette-packets, paper, vegetable matter, garden waste, hedge-clippings, dead animals, ash, tins, rubbish, bricks, stones, rubble, soil and any other matter or substance which is unwholesome, offensive or untidy.” Mutare City Council Town Clerk, Mr Blessing Chafesuka, said: “We are currently updating our by-laws, a process that involves input from all stakeholders. The proposals outlined in the document are subject to approval by Mutare City residents and ratepayers. We encourage all stakeholders to participate in the ongoing consultation process, as the finalised document will have far-reaching implications for everyone in Mutare.” Under the section that deals with abandoned vehicles, the by-laws read: “(1) No vehicle shall be placed, left at any open place, road side or any land for the purpose of dumping without the consent of council. (2) If the abandoned vehicle is left unattended to after 48 hours, council shall endeavour to look for the owner of the abandoned vehicle, and give notice to him or her by way of a written document. “(3) Upon heeding the notice from council, the owner of the abandoned vehicle shall pay to council towing and storage fees. (4) Should the owner of the abandoned vehicle fail to remove their vehicle within three working days, council shall tow away the abandoned vehicle to a storage facility at the expense of the owner. “(5) If the vehicle is abandoned in an inconvenient place, council shall tow away the abandoned vehicle within 24 hours to a storage facility at the expense of the owner. (6) If the owner of the abandoned vehicle fails to redeem their abandoned vehicle for 60 days, council shall dispose of the vehicle through an advertised auction to recover expenses. “Tow away fees: Light motor vehicles (US$61,93) (and) heavy motor vehicles (US$500). Storage fees — light motor vehicles (US$20) per day (and) heavy motor vehicles (UU$50) per day.” The proposed by-laws comprise 22 sections, covering a wide range of regulations, including Abandoned Vehicles, Anti-Litter, Cemetery, Control of Livestock, Control of Worship in Open Spaces, Cycle, Dog Licence, Environment, Fire, Food Hygiene, Game Meat, Hairdressers and Barbers, Hawkers and Vendors, Human Excreta Not to Be Used as Fertiliser, Mining and Mineral Panning, Noise, Occupation of Council Properties, Registration and Licenced Premises, Taxi and Cab, Traffic, Clamping and Tow Away, Urban Agriculture as well as Water, Drainage and Sewerage. Mr Chafesuka said: “We invite residents to provide input on the draft by-laws, ensuring that the final product has broad support and buy-in from all stakeholders. This will facilitate smoother enforcement. Interested ratepayers and residents can submit their feedback in hard copy to the office of the Town Clerk at Civic Centre, Mutare.” United Mutare Residents and Ratepayers Trust (UMRRT) programmes director, Mr Edmore Dube, said: “I think the by-laws we are using were long overdue for amendment. One could see that these by-laws were colonial, and did not address the current realities and challenges we face as a city. Some of the fines were not punitive enough from both the council’s and our perspective as a residents’ association. For example, littering is a significant issue, with corporate entities being the biggest polluters. Some companies operating in the city dump truckloads of litter indiscriminately, while residents also contribute to the problem. “We believe the revised punishment is sufficient. We need to live in a clean environment, which is a constitutional provision. Another example is the prohibitive measures against streambank cultivation, which has caused flash flooding. People may agree with me that this year saw serious incidents of flash flooding due to deliberate litter dumping in drainage lines. We are confident that the council conducted wide consultations, and obtained buy-in from residents and companies committed to living in a clean and normal environment.” Zimbabwe National Organisation of Association of Residents Trust provincial chairman, Mr Rodreck Chasauka, said: “The by-laws are unwelcome and an ambush on the community, lacking clarity. We are also concerned that insufficient timeframe was given for residents’ contributions. There were no outreach programmes seeking people’s opinions. Advertisements were restricted to the Press, with no other channels used. As a result, many residents are unaware of the contents. Furthermore, the by-laws are only available in one language, omitting local languages. Many residents will be surprised if the by-laws are implemented. Awareness needs to be relaunched, and more time should be given for residents to scrutinise the bylaws.” Mr Obert Dhliwayo, a resident of Chikanga suburb, said: “It is true that the by-laws were archaic and needed updating. I welcome this process, and believe anyone who wants to contribute seriously can do so before the deadline. “Our challenge is that people only become concerned when they are eventually affected, but they rarely participate in the law-making process. How many people attend community consultation meetings or school development committee meetings?” Mr Munyaradzi Hove, a resident of Dangamvura said: “I do not know anything about the by-laws issue you are talking about.” *_-Manica Post_* 7. *FORMER AGRICULTURE DEPUTY MINISTER CLAIMS ZANU PF RIVALS ARE TARGETING HIM FOR SUCCESSIVE ELECTION DEFEATS* Former Deputy Minister of Agriculture Douglas Karoro has said political rivals Takesure Chikwamba and Charles Mutukudzi are behind allegations that he stole fertiliser from the Grain Marketing Board (GMB) mainly because he has beaten them thrice in the Zanu PF party's primary elections. Karoro spoke following Mutukudzi's appearance as a State witness in a case he is facing charges of diverting agricultural inputs. He said Mutukudzi and Chikwamba were bitter that they had failed to unseat him in 2015, 2018 and 2023 when he won the election while on remand as a result of the case. The primaries sought a candidate from Mbire constituency to represent Zanu PF in Parliamentary elections. At the time the allegations arose, Chikwamba was the party's District Coordinating Committee (DCC) Chairperson while Mutukudzi was his deputy. Mutukudzi told the court that he was informed by a certain Zanu PF leader of 'suspicious' trucks, allegedly linked to Karoro, that were loading fertiliser at GMB Mushumbi depot. He said he then proceeded, with the blessing of Chikwamba, to file a report with the police. Chikwamba accompanied him. Mutukudzi admitted that he lost thrice to Karoro in the race to represent Mbire in Parliament but said he was not bitter. He said it was just human nature to want to win. "It is human nature to want to win every election," said Mutukudzi, to which Karoro's lawyer Admire Rubaya further asked if he was happy with the defeat. Rubaya questioned why malpractices at GMB would be reported to him if he was neither a government official nor an interested party. The matter continues on Friday before Regional Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 8. *WORLD’S LUCKIEST MAN – HOW DID RAMESH SURVIVE PLANE CRASH THAT KILLED OVER 241 PEOPLE YESTERDAY* Amid the theatre of death, with more than 241 dead, Doomsday images and a world reeling from the latest deadly passenger plane crash, a man walked out of the burning Boeing 7878 Dreamliner yesterday. It is the world’s worst aviation disaster in a decade. It was the first crash for the Dreamliner, which began flying commercially in 2011, according to the Aviation Safety Network database. The plane that crashed flew for the first time in 2013 and was delivered to Air India in January 2014, Flightradar24 said. Vishwashkumar Ramesh is the only survivor from that crash when an Air India passenger jet came down, shortly after take-off in Ahmedabad, and crashed into a residential area. The plane was flying to London. There were 169 Indian nationals, 53 Britons, seven Portuguese nationals and one Canadian on the flight. The Air India plane bound for London crashed moments after taking off. The Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, with 242 people on board, was headed for Gatwick Airport, south of the British capital and crashed onto a medical college hostel during lunch hour. At least one passenger survived, police said, and the man told Indian media how he had heard a loud noise shortly after Flight AI171 took off. “We are still verifying the number of the dead, including those killed in the building where the plane crashed,” Vidhi Chaudhary, a top state police officer, told Reuters. She said the death toll was more than 240, revising down a previous toll of 294 as it included body parts that had been double counted. It was not immediately clear how many of the dead had been on the aircraft or on the ground. The known surviving passenger was in seat 11A, next to an emergency exit, Chaudhary said, adding that there could be more survivors in hospital. “Thirty seconds after take-off, there was a loud noise and then the plane crashed,” 40-year-old Ramesh Viswashkumar told the Hindustan Times, which showed a boarding pass for seat 11A in that name online. “It all happened so quickly,” he told the paper from his hospital bed. “When I got up, there were bodies all around me. I was scared. I stood up and ran. There were pieces of the plane all around me,” he said. “Someone grabbed hold of me and put me in an ambulance and brought me to the hospital.” He said that his brother, Ajay, was seated in a different row on the plane. “He was travelling with me and I can’t find him anymore. Please help me find him,” he said. The passengers included 217 adults, 11 children and two infants, a source told Reuters. Air India said 169 were Indian nationals, 53 were Britons, seven Portuguese, and one Canadian. So, how did he walk out of the carnage? Ramesh was on seat 11A. According to Artificial Intelligence, “the number 11 is often associated with luck and positive symbolism in various cultures and traditions. “Here’s why the number 11 is seen as lucky: • 11 is considered a master number in numerology, meaning it’s a powerful symbol with a high spiritual significance. • The number 11 is often associated with spiritual awakening and enlightenment. • The number 11 is seen as a symbol of new beginnings and purity, especially when seen in conjunction with the number 1, which also represents new beginnings. • In summary, the number 11 is often seen as a lucky number due to its association with spiritual awakening, intuition, and new beginnings in numerology and other traditions. However, it’s important to remember that the concept of luck is subjective and not supported by scientific evidence.” *_-H-Metro_* 9. *HARARE COUNCILLORS FIGHT UNDERVALUING LAND COMPENSATED TO CHIYANGWA'S PINNACLE HOLDINGS* Harare City Council risks losing thousands of dollars in land value if the municipality complies with the government directive to compensate Pinnacle Holdings with tracts of stands. The Minister of Local Government and Public Works, Daniel Garwe, recently wrote a directive to Harare Mayor Jacob Mafume instructing the City Council to allocate land to Pinnacle Holdings as compensation for property acquired by the government. Pinnacle Holdings is owned by businessman Philip Chiyangwa, who is also a ZANU PF member. The directive sparked a heated debate in a recent Council meeting, with Ward 16 Denford Ngadziore expressing concern that the council might part with the land at a value lower than its actual price. "The report is saying US$5 per square metre. So my argument is, in Malbereign and around Harare, we are selling at US$20 per square metre, whilst on the other side, it is going for US$5 per square metre. "We cannot transfer land whose value we do not know. We are not transferring tomatoes; this is land we are talking about," said Ngadziore. The proposed compensation has angered residents, with associations labelling the move as unconstitutional and tantamount to government interference in the affairs of the local authority. As a result, residents are calling for the compensation to Pinnacle Holdings to be halted. Several stands have been earmarked for compensation, subject to the Council's approval. However, anomalies have been raised regarding some of the stands. Adonia Shoko raised a red flag over stands in Kuwadzana, stating that some individuals already hold offer letters for the land. Kudzai Kadzombe also raised a similar concern regarding land identified as part of the compensation to Pinnacle Holdings. "I have a personal interest because, as Councillor of Ward 41, we have already raised this issue. We have a piece of land in Bluffhill which is on that list, but residents had already submitted a petition and begun mobilising to build a council school," said Kadzombe. The HCC Finance Committee is set to deliberate on Garwe's directive and conduct due diligence on the anomalies raised in the meeting. However, Mafume bluntly told the Council that those aggrieved should consider mounting a legal challenge. "Anyone who feels aggrieved or has their property rights affected by the letter is advised to make a beeline to their lawyers," said Mafume. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 10. *“IF IT’S THAT EASY, GO AHEAD AND DO IT” MADAM BOSS’ GLAMOROUS BET VISIT DEFENDED* Renowned cultural curator, creative director, and media entrepreneur Plot Mhako, has come out in defense of social media personality Madam Boss, after she came under fierce criticism for her appearance at this year’s edition of the BET awards. As she did when she attended the same ceremony last year, Madam Boss took treasured snaps with Hollywood A-listers and attended some notable related events, including an after-party hosted by comedian and musician Jamie Foxx. However, her bubbly personality seemed to have rubbed some Zimbos the wrong way, with some on social media arguing that the hullabaloo surrounding her attendance at the ceremony was unwarranted. In a Facebook post, Plot Mhako came to the defense of Madam Boss, highlighting the fact that somehow managing to rub shoulders with some of the world’s most prominent artists was not as easy as some Zimbabweans made it sound. “The hate Madam Boss is getting from some Zimbos for being at the BET Awards is wild. If it’s that easy, go ahead and do it yourself. “Until then, let her live her moment in peace. Success isn’t easy — let’s support those bold enough to chase it,” he wrote. Meanwhile, Madam Boss appeared unbothered by her critics, posting a motivational quote to accompany some of her pictures from the award ceremony. “They may overlook you, but your gift will make room for you and bring you before great people. Stay ready, your time is coming,” she wrote. *_-Nehanda Radio_* 11. *POLICE OFFICERS STOOD BY AND WATCHED AS RUWA CONSTABLE BEAT SUSPECT TO DEATH – SHOCKING DETAILS EMERGE* In a chilling and deeply disturbing incident, new information has emerged alleging that multiple police officers at Ruwa Police Station stood by and watched as one of their own, Constable Prince Ndavambi, brutally beat a suspect to death — without making any attempt to intervene. The victim, Blessed Believe Juruvenge, 30, was a husband, expecting father, and small business owner. He died less than 24 hours after being arrested in connection with a US$200 (approx. R3,700) dispute — a matter his family insists had already been resolved privately. Constable Ndavambi is alleged to have used a wooden hoe handle to repeatedly assault Juruvenge while shouting that he would “leave this station dead.” According to investigative publication DugUp, eyewitnesses now claim other officers watched the beatings in silence. One officer even handed Ndavambi a set of handcuffs, while another reportedly warned the family: “Your relative is going to leave here in a police coffin.” No charges were ever laid against Blessed. He was never formally booked for trial. Instead, he was taken into custody on 27 May 2025 — and by the morning of 28 May, he was dead. His family believes he was tortured to death in a deliberate act meant to extract bribes. According to police internal documents and interviews with witnesses, Juruvenge was assaulted relentlessly, even after he lost consciousness. His sister, who was also arrested, says she was beaten on the knees with a wooden stick and ordered to “find money” for their release. Despite this harrowing ordeal happening in plain sight of other officers, no immediate action was taken against Constable Ndavambi, who later fled. His arrest only came weeks later, after growing public outrage and media scrutiny. According to DugUp, this is no longer just about one rogue officer. It’s about a system that allowed it to happen — and did nothing to stop it. *_-iHarare_* 12. *POLICE DESTROY DANGEROUS DRUGS* Police destroyed dangerous drugs recovered from drug bases and dealers at Sally Mugabe Central Hospital before crushing and disposing of unregistered beverages at the Chitungwiza dumping site. About 333,2 kgs of processed dagga, 293 plants of dagga, 15,86 grams of crystal meth were destroyed. The police crushed and disposed of 214 kgs of unregistered beverages, which included Energy Philter and Kombucha. Police left the site after making sure everything had been destroyed. To witness the destruction of the dangerous drugs were officials from National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Medicines Control Authority of Zimbabwe (MCAZ) and the Ministry of Health and Child Care. National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi those who provided credible information which has led to the arrest of several suspects. Some of them have been convicted and given appropriate sentences. Among the destroyed items were illicit beverages recovered at houses in Waterfalls, Hatfield and at the Mazda Motor Industries complex. Others were intercepted from transporters at border posts. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police and other stakeholders who included MCAZ, Ministry of Health and Child Care officials witnessed the destruction of exhibits which contained drugs and substances,” said Comm Nyathi. “They were recovered from different areas that include national entry points, drug bases and houses. “The suspects were arrested, taken to court where they were convicted and given appropriate sentences. In terms of the Dangerous Drugs Act, the destruction of these drugs and substances, a panel comprising these stakeholders and police is set up to co-ordinate and agree on the destruction. “We continue to thank Zimbabweans for giving information that led to the arrest of the suspects and urge them to continue supplying information until all the dealers are brought to book and we end drug and substance abuse,” said Comm Nyathi. *_-Herald_* 13. *MILTON HIGH SCHOOL TEACHER GRANTED BAIL AMID SODOMY CHARGES* A 36-year-old teacher at Milton High School has been granted US$300 bail following his arrest and court appearance on multiple counts of sodomising boys. Tyson Lunga made his initial court appearance before Bulawayo magistrate Eva Matura on Thursday. Lunga faces six charges related to performing indecent acts with young persons, including allegations of sexual harassment and attempted sexual exploitation of students. Represented by Constance Tatenda Mathaba, Lunga denies the charges. The National Prosecuting Authority represented by Nkanyezi Xaba alleges that Lunga targeted four male students between 15 and 17 years old, making sexual advances, offering money for sexual favours, and discussing sexual preferences. In one incident, Lunga is alleged to have made sexual advances towards a 17-year-old student, sending messages calling the student “handsome” and expressing a desire to engage in gay sex. In another instance, Lunga is alleged to have offered a 15-year-old student $10 if he would sleep with him, inviting the student to his residence at the school and sending messages complimenting the student’s appearance. Lunga is also accused of offering another 15-year-old student food and money in exchange for intimacy, calling the student into his room and offering to pay for the student’s gym membership. In another incident, a complainant described how Lunga allegedly discussed homosexuality and offered $50 for intimacy, which the complainant declined. The final incident involves Lunga telling an 18-year-old student that he had a list of students he wanted to have sexual relations with, asking the student to choose between male and female roles and expressing interest in the student. This was eventually reported to the boarding master, leading to Lunga’s arrest. However, Lunga’s lawyer claims that these allegations are false, stating that Lunga had been a victim of rumours that he was a homosexual before he even transferred to Milton High School. According to the lawyer, some teachers had already advised students to stay away from Lunga and had coerced students into making reports against him. He was remanded to June 25. *_-ZimLive_* 14. *TEEN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR BRUTALLY KILLING AUNT IN COLD BLOOD BEFORE RAPING HER CORPSE* High Court judge, Justice Munamato Mutevedzi has expressed concern over some cases judges preside over further noting that crimes that are being committed around Zimbabwe may suggest that the world is coming to an end. The judge also said court officials would require psychological support for them to cope with things they hear in court everyday. Mutevedzi said this while handing down sentence against one Tapiwa Mereka (19) at the Gweru High Court. Mereka was found guilty of the gruesome murder of his mother's sister Mary Mereka on January 27, 2023, and also raping her lifeless body. Mutevedzi said Mereka deserved capital sentence adding that he is fortunate that death penalty had been scrapped. "If it is true that on some day God will destroy the world, then that time is nigh. Some of the crimes that we preside over suggest that Armageddon is imminent. "Tapiwa Mereka (the offender) has a head but it is doubtful that he has a brain inside it. If he does, then his mind is so perverted and depraved that he should not be living amongst human beings. "The crime that he committed is unconscionable and would possibly win an Oscar award for horror movies. "Every one of us who took part in the trial would be thinking about this for a long time to come. "It lays bare, the oft-repeated myth that judges are inanimate. "The reality is that judicial officers and other court officials who work in the criminal courts and hear these horrific stories almost on a daily basis may suffer what is called vicarious trauma. "They all may end up requiring therapy in one form or another," Mutevedzi said. The court heard Mereka had plotted to rape and kill his aunt for a long time. In his warned and cautioned statement accused person admitted that he always admired her and wanted to sleep with her. He was biding his time and waiting for an opportune moment to strike. He said the idea became maddening some three days before the murder and could not shake off the desire and lust to have sexual intercourse with his aunt. He convinced himself to carry out the satanic idea on the fateful morning. "I do admit to the allegations levelled against me. The deceased was my aunt but I had quite some time admiring her and I wished that I have some time to rape her. "I also had the intention to kill her. I had no valid reason but I just felt that I have to kill her. "So, when I was with her in the field weeding together with her I then got the chance and took an axe which was in the field and struck her three times on the head whilst she was not expecting it. "After striking her she fell down. I removed her pant and had sexual intercourse with her. "After I finished I dressed her and took the axe and threw it outside the field and went to Sebakwe River with the intention to stay there," Mereka admitted. The teenager said at the time the time of the sex, the deceased was still alive although in a vegetative state. Mutevedzi said even imagining that his victim was dead by the time he committed the abomination, his actions would have amounted to the crime of violating a dead body in contravention of section 111 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act. He said in other jurisdictions, it would have been the crime of necrophilia, which criminalises any sexual attraction to a dead person. The judge said this aggravates Mereka's situation. "Having found that the murder is aggravated there cannot be escaping the severest punishment. "Before the abolition of the penalty of death from our statute books this was a case that would have undoubtedly attracted capital punishment. "Needless to state, that option is no longer available. The only two choices which the court has are sentencing the offender either to life imprisonment or to a determinate term of not less than 20 years." "What is worse is that he said he was prepared to kill for no reason. He is, therefore, a dangerous individual whom the court cannot risk letting back into society. "He may kill again- for nothing else other than his enjoyment. "He appears worse than a robber who kills for financial gain because it is possible to resist that more than a desire that one cannot explain. "It is like the offender gets possessed by some irresistible spirit. Given the above, our hands are, therefore, tied. It is difficult to empathise with the offender. "If he could be so sadistic as to easily kill his own mother and still find sexual gratification from her in that state of helplessness, we shudder to think what he could possibly do to a stranger or to children. "He is someone whose soul must be left to God to correct. As a court, we can do no more than administer justice. "We will permanently remove him from society and confine him to the secure walls of a prison. "Accordingly, the offender is sentenced to life imprisonment," the judge ruled. *_-NewZimbabwe_* 15. *14-YEAR-OLD BOY FROM LONDON SUES PARENTS WHO TRICKED HIM INTO MOVING TO GHANA FOR SCHOOL* A 14-year-old boy from London, who was tricked by his parents into going to a boarding school in Ghana, has won the right to have his case reconsidered in a British court. The boy’s parents took him to Ghana in March 2024, telling him a relative was sick. In reality, they wanted to remove him from London because they worried he was getting involved with criminal gangs. Unhappy and feeling abandoned in Ghana, the boy hired lawyers and challenged his parents’ decision in the High Court in London, but he lost in February. On Thursday, he won an appeal, so the case will be heard again. The Court of Appeal judges said there was confusion in the earlier decision and that the boy’s views needed to be better considered, especially since he is mature enough to make some decisions for himself. The boy’s lawyer said he is desperate to return to the UK and feels lost and alone in Ghana. Deirdre Fottrell KC, said he is “desperate” to return to the UK. He is culturally displaced and alienated. He considers himself abandoned by his family. He feels he is a British boy, a London boy,” she said. Meanwhile, his parents argue that keeping him in Ghana is safer, as they believe he was at risk from gangs in London. Rebecca Foulkes representing the parents said that staying in Ghana was the “least harmful” option for the boy. “The parents found themselves in a wholly invidious decision when they made the decision they made. Ghana provided a safe haven, separate from those who exposed him to risk. The least harmful option is for him to remain in Ghana,” she argued. The case highlights the difficult balance between parents’ rights to protect their children and a child’s right to have a say in their own life. The next court hearing will happen in the coming weeks, and a full written decision will follow. *_-Nehanda Radio_* 16. *BULAWAYO MAN SENTENCED FOR STEALING US$2,700 TO FUND GAMBLING SPREE* A Pumula man who stole US$2,700 from his employer and lost it all on betting sprees has been sentenced to prison after admitting his crime in court. Nkenya Mudenda, 29, appeared before Tredgold Magistrate Evia Matura, where he pleaded guilty to theft charges involving funds entrusted to him by local food distributor Ansar Foods. The magistrate handed him a 24-month sentence, with six months suspended. Between June 6 and June 9, Mudenda was responsible for collecting and managing cash on behalf of Ansar Foods. Prosecutor Nkanyezi Xaba explained that instead of safeguarding the funds, Mudenda embezzled the money and used it to fuel his gambling addiction. When the company, represented by director Mark Chitaka, requested the money, Mudenda was unable to account for the funds. He later confessed to losing the entire amount through betting, hoping to multiply the money quickly. "I just wanted to multiply the money," Mudenda told the court. "I thought I could make more through betting." Unfortunately for him, the gamble did not pay off. No funds have been recovered to date. Now facing the consequences of his actions behind bars, Mudenda's story serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of greed and gambling – where, in the end, the house always wins. *_-Bulawayo24_*