The ManicaPost
Blessing Rwizi Post Correspondent
IN a rare and extraordinary promotion parade held at ZRP Mutare Main Camp on Wednesday, a Dangamvura-based police officer who pursued and arrested a self-proclaimed prophet who was at large for attempted rape charges was promoted from the rank of constable to sergeant.
Sergeant Courage Mhara was honoured by Officer Commanding Manicaland Province, Senior Assistant Commisioner Isaac Tayengwa for taking the risk of diving into a pond of raw sewage and pursuing Trust Chiriko (30) who had escaped arrest at Munezhu Roadblock in Dangamvura on September 13.
Sgt Mhara and his colleague, Cst Taison Munhungeyi went home with a bicycle and $50 cash each.
Speaking at the promotion parade held at ZRP Mutare Main Camp, Snr Asst Com Tayengwa expressed satisfaction at Sgt Mhara’s outstanding performance.
He said Sgt Mhara deserved the promotion for his notable sterling effort.
“He has shown commitment, devotion and has become very exemplary among other police officers and he surely deserved this promotion. This should be a living testimony to other members of the police force that the Commissioner General’s instant promotion is not just on paper, but it can truly come to reality. This man is a hero of legendary proportions,” said Snr Asst Com Tayengwa.
In an interview, Sgt Mhara, could not hide his joy as he explained what transpired, resulting in his promotion.
“This promotion is an unusual one which I never thought would come my way. What gave me the strength and courage to pursue this alleged rapist until I arrested him was the love that I have for my job as a policeman.
“It wasn’t quite an easy thing to get dive into the sewage, but that was the only chance we had to arrest this suspect. Moreover, the situation was a bit risky as the suspect started attacking me with stones, but I kept advancing for about 2km until I nabbed him. I had no reason to retreat, but to do what I was trained to do. Now I feel honoured and I am personally satisfied with this achievement,” said Sgt Mhara.
He said Chiriko was positively identified by Cst Munhundiyani at the roadblock.
“When we tried to arrest him, he took to his heels. He ran towards Sakubva River. I ran after him and he dived into a pool of raw sewage, but I could not be outdone.
“Without taking a second thought, I jumped into the raw sewage in my uniform, but he quickly got out and took to his heels, again on the other side of the pool. Still I went after him for about 2 kilometres along Sakubva River where he started pelting me with stones due to exhaustion. Still I continued coming until I caught and arrested him,” said Sgt Mhara.
