THE Zimbabwe Independent Complaints Commission (ZICC) has condemned acts of violence by police officers who were captured in a video widely circulating online, assaulting a motorist in Budiriro, saying they are going to review the incident in terms of the law.
This comes after the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) claimed on Wednesday that they had taken swift disciplinary action against the three cops shown in the video, which has enraged the public.
The cops were filmed attacking a motorist, with a female cop leading the attack while her colleague is shown kicking and trying to take the motorist down.
In a statement dated October 29, ZICC said while they take note of the police’s response, they will exercise their independent mandate to review the incident.
The Commission said policing should be conducted within the confines of the law with respect to human dignity.
“The Commission condemns in the strongest terms all forms of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by law enforcement officials.
“The Commission acknowledges the public statement by the ZRP, through its National Spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirming that disciplinary measures have been instituted against the implicated officers. While this administrative response is noted, the Commission shall exercise its independent mandate to review the incident and determine whether the conduct complained of discloses any violation of human rights, abuse of power, or maladministration warranting further inquiry,” the statement said.
The Commission further said law enforcement agencies must always operate within the confines of the law.
“Professional policing must at all times be conducted within the bounds of the law, with due respect for human dignity, proportionality in the use of force, and adherence to the principles of accountability and transparency,” the statement reads.
ZICC said the public has the right to approach them and lodge complaints in cases involving misconduct by members of security services.
