Charges havwe been withdrawn against Maureen Kademaunga, a newly elected member of Zimbabwe’s National Assembly for Sunningdale Constituency. She had been accused of attempted murder and malicious damage related to an alleged violent gang.
However, prosecutors found a lack of evidence directly linking Ms. Kademaunga to the gang’s criminal activities. She was subsequently freed at the vetting office.
Two other suspects, Clyde Mashozhera and Daundi Josseb, remain in custody awaiting trial on the charges. Police continue to search for additional gang members allegedly involved in the violent assault of Cyril Nyauchi and others.
It is said the incident occurred at the intersection of Seke and Boshoff roads in Harare’s Graniteside neighbourhood. Several vehicles reportedly blocked Mr. Nyauchi’s Toyota Spacio before the occupants forced him from the car.
Mashozhera, Josseb and others then allegedly used batons, iron bars and an axe to smash the vehicle’s windshield and windows. They proceeded to assault Mr. Nyauchi and the other passengers, inflicting serious head injuries and bruising.
After the attack, the gang set Mr. Nyauchi’s vehicle ablaze, destroying it completely. Lost in the fire was US$10,000 in cash, spare vehicle parts, mobile phones and a jerry can. All victims sustained injuries requiring medical treatment.
While the charges against Ms. Kademaunga were dropped due to insufficient evidence, the investigation and prosecution of Josseb, Mashozhera and other suspects continues.
