“Not Our Fault”: ZRP Blames City Parking As Both Deny Role After Father’s Tragic Death In Harare CBD

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has pointed the finger directly at City Parking, claiming their clamping enforcement led to the tragedy, as both authorities issued statements vehemently denying any role in a father’s death. This stark mutual disavowal follows the fatal incident on January 7, 2026, where Blessing Mangezi (50) was struck by a vehicle in Harare’s Central Business District while his children watched from their car.

Police Statement Blames City Parking Directly

In a statement, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi exonerated the police force and placed responsibility on municipal parking officials.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police acknowledges the recent viral social media posts concerning the unfortunate death of Blessing Mangezi (50) on January 7, 2026. Our deepest condolences go out to the bereaved family. The victim was struck by a motorist, Tompsone Zuze (32), who was speeding in a Nissan Vanette truck. At the time of the incident, there were no police operations targeting public service vehicles or mushikashika in the area. This is the correct position.

“The reality is that Harare City Park officials clamped the victim’s vehicle under city by-laws. Any insinuation implicating the Zimbabwe Republic Police is unfounded. We are currently collaborating with the City of Harare to ascertain the full details.”

City Parking’s Statement Denies Involvement

City Parking responded with a statement expressing regret but firmly denying any involvement. Unlike the ZRP, the company did not blame the police; it simply rejected any role in the event.

“City Parking management is deeply saddened by the tragic accident that occurred at the intersection of Robert Mugabe Road and Inez Terrace on January 7. We extend our heartfelt condolences to the family and loved ones of the deceased.

“For the record, City Parking had no involvement with the vehicle at the time of the incident. There was no outstanding transaction with our enforcement agents; the vehicle was not clamped by our team. Our thoughts are with all those affected by this devastating event.”

Eyewitness Account Contradicts Official Narratives

These official denials stand in sharp contrast to the January 8 eyewitness report from veteran broadcaster Barney Mpariwa. He described a scene where the victim was desperately seeking a City Parking marshal after his car was clamped, simultaneous with visible police activity.

“Panicked and desperate, he ran after one of the marshals… In that same moment, chaos erupted nearby. Police were chasing commuter omnibuses and mushikashika vehicles at the corner of Julius Nyerere Way and Robert Mugabe Road.”

Mpariwa’s account details that a vehicle fleeing this scene struck Mangezi, who then lay on the road for nearly an hour.