Police officers harass Herald photographer
14 Aug, 2024
What happened
On 13 August 2024, Zimbabwe Republic Police details attending an accident scene at the intersection of Seke Road and St Patrick Road in Harare allegedly manhandled a photographer from The Herald, Charles Muchakagara, who was taking photographs of the crash.
Muchakagara was handcuffed by the police officers, leading to the photographer sustaining some minor injuries on his wrists caused by the tightening of the handcuffs.
The Herald reported that the photographer was handcuffed and police attempted to confiscate his camera.
Muchakagara continued to be allegedly harassed despite producing his valid Zimbabwe Media Commission accreditation card.
The photographer confirmed the incident to MISA Zimbabwe
MISA's position
MISA Zimbabwe urges police details to refer to the Police-Media Action Plan when dealing with conflict involving journalists.
Where police are investigating, they must amicably inform members of the media to observe the necessary protocols at crime scenes.
Police ought to respect journalists at all times .
MISA Zimbabwe urges the police to fully investigate the matter and bring to book the members/officers involved.
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About MISA
The Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) was founded in 1992. Its work focuses on promoting, and advocating for, the unhindered enjoyment of freedom of expression, access to information and a free, independent, diverse and pluralistic media.
Latest media violations
Those affected:
Charles Muchakagara
Charles Muchakagara
Number affected:
1
1
Perpetrators:
Police Officers
Police Officers
Types of actors:
State
State
Location:
intersection of Seke Road and St Patrick Road in Harare
intersection of Seke Road and St Patrick Road in Harare