ZRP Denies Issuing Statement On Douglas Coltart Assault Case But Confirms ‘Investigations Are Underway’
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has denied issuing a circulating statement on the alleged assault of lawyer Douglas Coltart, saying the message shared widely on social media is false and misleading, while confirming that investigations into the incident are underway.
The police issued the clarification on 3 April 2026 following the circulation of a press statement allegedly attributed to the law enforcement agency regarding the assault that reportedly took place at Harare City Sports Centre during a parliamentary public hearing.
According to the Zimbabwe Republic Police, the circulating statement did not originate from the organisation.
“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 also confirmed that a formal complaint had been lodged and investigations had commenced.
“The police confirm that a report of the alleged assault has been received and investigations are currently underway.”
The ZRP added that updates would only be communicated through official platforms.
“The ZRP remains committed to maintaining law and order and will provide updates through official platforms.”
The clarification was posted on X at 7:50 PM on 3 April 2026 and quickly attracted thousands of views and reactions.
Circulating Statement Sparks Confusion
The denial came after a detailed press statement dated 03 April 2026 began circulating online, allegedly issued by the police regarding the alleged assault of Douglas Coltart at Harare City Sports Centre.
The circulating statement claimed the police acknowledged the seriousness of the incident and the public interest surrounding it.
“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.”
The same statement also suggested the case had political dimensions and could affect the pace of investigations.
“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.”
The statement further claimed that the matter was already before the courts and named individuals allegedly implicated.
“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.”
However, the ZRP has since dismissed the statement as false.
Public Reacts To Police Statement
The police clarification triggered mixed reactions from members of the public on X, with some users welcoming the confirmation that investigations were underway, while others questioned the pace of the probe.
One user wrote:
“Thank you. That’s what we want to hear that investigations are underway.”
Another user questioned the delay in arrests.
“Why has it taken you so long to arrest criminals that committed a crime in broad daylight? The internet had identified the culprits within 24 hours and yet you are admitting that no arrests or charges have been made.”
Some users also questioned the lack of updates.
“If investigations are indeed underway, why haven’t you provided any updates on this matter? You regularly keep us informed about other robbery cases here, so what makes this one different?”
The incident has generated significant public interest after the alleged assault occurred during a parliamentary public hearing at Harare City Sports Centre.
The police say investigations are continuing and updates will be issued through official platforms.
The post ZRP Denies Issuing Statement On Douglas Coltart Assault, Says Investigations Underway appeared first on iHarare News.
