August 18, 2003
On Saturday August 9, 2003, the owners of a farm in Harare South were subjected to severe trauma, which continued the next day. The owner, who is 70-years-old, took a severe beating, and his wife was also injured. Their problems appear to emanate from the Chikanyas, who broke into and occupied the manager's cottage on the farm late last year, and have been there ever since.
In January, the owner and his son were charged under POSA, arrested, and imprisoned. They have subsequently been to court five times, but are still unsure of what the charge is. The Chikanyas are evidently behind the arrest.
In February, the owner's son was set upon by 15 youths. They attacked him with a bicycle chain, sticks, an iron bar, and a golf club. He ended up with 10 stitches on his head, a gash across his cheek, and severe bruising.
A High Court order to evict the Chikanyas was served by the Sheriff soon afterwards, but the police have refused to back the Sheriff up in enacting the evictions. In the meantime, despite no Section 8, the family, who do not own any other farms, have not been able to grow any crops. From employing over 70 workers, they now employ only 14, who are looking after their cattle herd, which has diminished by 90%. The farm, whilst under its Section 5, has been pegged 14 times.
On Saturday August 9, 2003, a group of settlers forced their way through the security fence and started breaking down the doors and smashing windows while the owners were in the house. Looting then took place. A policeman arrived 45 minutes later, but did nothing to stop the looting and destruction. Another three policemen arrived 2 hours later, and watched the looting continue to take place for 10 hours.
Eventually, the O.I.C. Beatrice arrived and left shortly afterwards, apparently leaving a police presence.
The next morning, on August 10th, the owners endured more looting at 7:00 am. The owner was badly beaten by the same people who the police had refused to arrest the day before.
The police eventually arrived again, while looting still continued in their presence. The owners were in severe shock, but eventually some semblance of order was brought about and the owners were able to vacate their home. The assessment of damage and looting has yet to be established.
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