By Delicious Mathuthu
Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of 107 suspects following flash protests that took place on March 31, 2025, mostly at Robert Gabriel Mugabe Square.
About 95 of the arrested protesters clashed with law enforcement officers in Harare.
In a press statement released on Wednesday March 3, 2025, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, the Chief Staff Officer for Press and Public Relations to the Commissioner-General of Police, said the protests were unsanctioned and violent.
“The Police recorded a few reports of violence and malicious damage to property.
“A total of 107 suspects were arrested throughout the country for participating in violent and unauthorized demonstrations.”
The unrest erupted after social media posts, led by an expelled ZANU PF member, Cde Blessed Geza, called for mass gatherings and acts of defiance against the status quo.
Demonstrators, according to police, reportedly damaged public and private property before police intervened to restore order.
Some witnesses say there were momentary chaotic scenes with officers moving swiftly to disperse the crowds, remove barricades that had been thrown on roads, and apprehend those involved in the alleged criminal activities.
Authorities said the arrested individuals will face the full force of the law.
“The law will certainly take its course on unruly elements who commit criminal acts under the guise of demonstrations,” Commissioner Nyathi stressed.
He further urged the public to be cautious about misinformation circulating on social media, which had contributed to the unrest.
Family members of some of the arrested individuals, however, expressed concern over the treatment of their loved ones while in custody.
Meanwhile, the ZRP remains highly alert, maintaining a strong presence across the country to prevent any further disturbances.
Commissioner Nyathi also reiterated the importance of public cooperation.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant and disregard social media calls to engage in violent acts or unlawful gatherings,” he said.
