ZRP Cop Declares Himself Commissioner, Orders All Chinese to Leave Zimbabwe — Now Locked in Psychiatric Unit After Being Declared Mentally Unfit
A police officer who sparked panic across Zimbabwe by declaring himself the country’s new police chief and ordering Chinese nationals to leave the country has been declared mentally unfit to stand trial and committed indefinitely to Chikurubi Psychiatric Unit.
Constable Simbarashe Mandizvidza, stationed at ZRP Hatfield Police Camp, was facing charges of transmitting false information with intent to cause harm, violating the Road Traffic Act, and inciting disaffection within the police and defence forces.
Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai made the ruling after receiving medical reports from two state doctors and one private practitioner, all confirming Mandizvidza was not of sound mental health.
The officer drew national attention in August after recording and circulating a series of viral videos from his official residence, in which he proclaimed himself the new head of the Zimbabwe Republic Police.
In one of the clips, Mandizvidza issued a 48-hour ultimatum for all Chinese nationals living and doing business in Zimbabwe to vacate the country, claiming he was acting under orders from the Commissioner-General.
He was also accused of unlawfully taking a police Ford Ranger after allegedly convincing his superior, Fidios Chiteure—officer in charge of Police General Headquarters Pay and Records—that Commissioner Makomo had authorized him to use the vehicle for official errands.
The car was later recovered in Waerera Village, Bindura.
The prosecution has been formally suspended until Mandizvidza’s mental health improves. Magistrate Kuhudzai ruled that the officer was not mentally fit to stand trial, based on unanimous medical findings from the three doctors involved.
Mandizvidza’s indefinite commitment to Chikurubi Psychiatric Unit will remain in effect until doctors confirm his recovery and ability to face trial.
His case has sparked broader conversations around mental health support within law enforcement and the need for early intervention protocols for officers in psychological distress.
