Paddy Zhanda arrested over assault

Zim Now Writer

Son of prominent politician Paddy Zhanda, who apparently is also called Paddy, 40, was yesterday arrested on allegations of assaulting three of his farm workers after a video of the beatings circulated on social media.

He was accusing the employees of stealing potatoes at his farm.

Zhanda owns Chipfumbi Farm and the incident happened last Thursday.

Seke-Chikomba Women’s Quota Member of Parliament and Assistant Speaker of Parliament Honourable Tatenda Mavetera had posted the video calling for a stop to the abuse of women.

In the video, Zhanda, who is being called “Boss” in the video, is seen assaulting one of the workers, who is pleading his innocence, with a log as he rolls on the ground.

Watch video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oIDtXYy_-f0

Police said in a statement that Zhanda is facing three counts of assault.

The three workers have also been arrested and were charged with theft.

“Reference is made to the assault case involving Paddy Zhanda, 40, of Chipfumbi Farm which went viral. The ZRP confirms that Paddy Zhanda, 40, has been arrested and appeared in court today facing three counts of assault.

“The suspect assaulted Dickson Nyatadzi, 34, Nyasha Samalani, 30, and Loveness Madziva, 29, for allegedly stealing 150kg of potatoes in his field. The incident occurred on 26/01/23 at around 1400 hours,” the police statement reads.

Police also warned employers against taking the law into their own hands when employees commit crimes.

Yesterday, Twimbos had expressed outrage over the assaults, calling for Zhanda’s prosecution.

The majority, however, condemned the vigilante approach, saying that while they don't condone theft, wronged parties should use the justice system and not matters into their own hands.

Other Twitter users alleged that the man being called “Boss” is well known for being physically abusive towards workers. They said that he abuses his father's political power and is an “untouchable”.

“This is the cancer consuming our country. Anyone who feels he wields any power imaginable ends up taking the law into their hands. I agree with you, this guy must be arrested. Whatever these people did, he should have reported them to the police,” tweeted one observer.