Police deny viral statement on Douglas Coltart assault
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has distanced itself from a statement circulating online that claims to address the alleged assault of human rights lawyer Douglas Coltart.
ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said on Friday that the police have received a report of the alleged assault and that investigations are now underway.
Nyathi said: “The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) advises the public that it has not issued any statement regarding the alleged assault of Douglas Coltart. The message circulating on social media is therefore false and misleading.
“The police confirm that a report of the alleged assault has been received, and investigations are currently underway.
“The ZRP remains committed to maintaining law and order and will provide updates through official platforms.”
Below is the statement dated 3 April 2026, titled “Assault of Lawyer Douglas Coltart,” which the ZRP has rejected as false:
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police notes with deep concern the recent incident at Harare City Sports Centre involving the assault of lawyer Douglas Coltart during a parliamentary public hearing. We acknowledge the seriousness of the matter and the public interest it has generated.
“As an institution, we remain committed to upholding the rule of law impartially and professionally.
“However, we must also acknowledge that cases with perceived or actual political dimensions can present unique challenges that may affect the pace and processes of investigations.
“This does not diminish our responsibility, but it underscores the complexity within which we sometimes operate.
“In matters that are not politically sensitive, the Zimbabwe Republic Police has consistently demonstrated its capacity to investigate thoroughly and act decisively.
“This track record reflects who we are as an institution — dedicated to justice, accountability, and public safety.
“The current case is now before the courts, and as such, our ability to comment further is limited in order to preserve the integrity of the judicial process.
“We trust that the legal system will address the matter fairly and that all individuals implicated, including Luckmore Tinashe Gapa and Nicholas Hamadziripi, will be held accountable in accordance with the law if found guilty.
“We reaffirm our unwavering commitment to serve and protect all people of Zimbabwe, without fear or favour, and to ensure that justice prevails.” *_-Pindula_*
