Drama unfolded at Chipinge Magistrates’ Court last Thursday when an enraged man stormed into the office of resident magistrate, Mr. Franklyn Mkwananzi, threatening him over a pending case involving his late father. The incident prompted a swift response from the police, who apprehended Promise Baiwa (42) carrying a metal spring.
According to reports, Baiwa had visited the Clerk of Court’s Office the previous day to request the record of his late father’s lawsuit against ZBS Housing Scheme, which pertained to unpaid work. However, feeling dissatisfied with the assistance received, Baiwa returned to the court the following day, seeking a meeting with Mr. Mkwananzi.
Upon being informed that the magistrate was engaged in a meeting, Baiwa became incensed. Allegedly wielding the metal spring, he stormed into Mr. Mkwananzi’s office, demanding the court papers he had requested and expressing his intention to confront the magistrate directly.
Unwilling to comply with Baiwa’s demands, two other magistrates present in the office refused to leave. Meanwhile, police officers stationed at the court were alerted to the commotion and promptly intervened, arresting Baiwa.
Subsequently, Baiwa appeared before the same magistrate, facing charges of disorderly conduct in a public place. He was remanded in custody until October 22 and ordered to undergo a mental evaluation to determine his mental status.
Public prosecutor Mr. Edmore Mahlanganise revealed that Baiwa had registered his father’s case through the Integrated Electronic Case Management System (IECMS), and it was currently pending at the High Court. Baiwa’s visit to the court was intended to follow up on the progress of the case, as advised during his previous visit.
