In a disturbing abuse of power, a high-ranking Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer has been brought before the Hwange Magistrates’ Court on charges of assaulting a female subordinate. Stanley Siampongo, the 48-year-old Officer in Charge of ZRP Kamativi, is accused of brutally attacking the 44-year-old complainant in his office.
The incident unfolded on February 22, 2024, when the complainant, who had been directed to commence charge office duties on that date, reported for duty an hour later than the scheduled 6 AM start time. Summoned to Siampongo’s office, the complainant attempted to explain the delay, but this did not sit well with the superior officer.
According to the allegations, Siampongo proceeded to assault the complainant, striking her repeatedly with his fists all over her body, causing her to fall to the ground. The officer then reportedly followed the complainant as she fled to the administration block, continuing the violent attack.
A police report was subsequently filed, leading to Siampongo’s arrest. The accused officer is set to appear in court on May 31, 2024, for the judgment in this case, which serves as a disturbing reminder of the need for robust accountability measures within the country’s law enforcement institutions.
