Zimbabwean Police have launched a manhunt for Knox Chiwero, the suspected administrator of the WhatsApp group Nyokayemabhunu, which police say was instrumental in planning the March 31 demonstrations led by activist Blessed Geza.
According to investigators, police successfully infiltrated the group and uncovered discussions allegedly orchestrating the protest. Chiwero, believed to have managed the platform using a South African-registered number, is now under scrutiny for possible cross-border coordination.
Police have vowed to track down all individuals involved, describing the demonstrations as “coordinated criminal acts”.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that additional suspects had been identified through WhatsApp conversations. He emphasised that social media played a significant role in mobilising participants and intimidating community members.
“We have identified more suspects through WhatsApp groups used to spread messages. In Masvingo, two additional individuals have been linked to the case. Social media was a key tool in organising these activities, and we are broadening our investigation to locate those responsible,” said Nyathi.
A total of 107 people have been arrested nationwide in connection with the unauthorised demonstrations. The majority,, 94 individuals,, were taken into custody at Robert Gabriel Mugabe Square in Harare, where protesters gathered on the morning of March 31.
During a court session, prosecutor Anesu Chirenje revealed that the protest was allegedly part of a larger strategy to incite unrest. Some demonstrators reportedly recorded videos and took photos, later sharing them online to amplify the movement.
Those who were not arrested at the scene were tracked down based on the footage circulated on social media. Authorities used this evidence to locate and apprehend additional individuals at their homes.
Legal proceedings are set to move forward, with written submissions from both the prosecution and defence starting Tuesday. A ruling on bail is expected on April 10. Meanwhile, law enforcement remains on high alert as the investigation into the protest organisers continues.
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