Ex-Zim Lieutenant denied bail

Sharon Mathala | Thursday October 22, 2015 11:43

 

According to the charge sheet, Mike Graduate Mutizwa is facing both counts.  In the first count, the 43-year-old Mutizwa is accused of unlawful possession of a 9mm Makarov pistol being an arm of war. 

In the second count, papers before court state that the accused unlawfully had in his possession nine live rounds of 9mm ammunition being ammunitions of war.

These were discovered on October 4, 2015 at Mmopane Block 1 by the Botswana Police Service. The presiding magistrate, Merafhe Tladi of Broadhurst was not available to decide, but principal magistrate, Taboka Slave delivered the ruling in her place.

When denying Mutizwa bail, Slave cited that there is a high possibility the ex-officer may flee the country and should thus remain in police custody. The court also learnt that Mutizwa was arrested with seven walkie talkies, 12 walkie talky chargers, three walkie talky batteries, five handcuffs, one baton, two sticks of honour, a ceremonial uniform suspected to be that of the Zimbabwe National Army, shorthand notebook with written notes for safety precautions and handling of a 9mm pistol, in his possession.

The case will continue on November 3 at the Broadhurst Magistrate Court.  Detective superintendent Sergeant Marapo is the investigating officer in the case.