Political Reporter
Security experts have exposed a coordinated strategy by opposition activists to outmanoeuvre law enforcement during the anticipated March 31 demonstrations being orchestrated by expelled former ZANU PF Central Committee member, Blessed Geza.
Speaking to the Harare Post this afternoon, security analyst Dr. Richard Mhlanga warned that there is a sophisticated attempt to flood urban centres with violent agitators under various guises to evade detection and arrest.
He revealed that from the information he gathered, some activists will likely be transported in hired vehicles under the pretence of attending funerals, while others will move in pairs like law abiding citizens only to regroup at designated assembly points.
“As a security expert who has been studying the current atmosphere, I have noted a deliberate attempt by opposition elements to deceive law enforcement. These groups intend to mobilise individuals in a calculated manner, using small travel groups to avoid suspicion and busing in protesters under the guise of mourners,” said Dr Mhlanga.
Dr. Mhlanga further warned that the opposition may attempt to manipulate the media by exaggerating incidents of police action against demonstrators to garner international sympathy.
“Citizens must be wary of misleading narratives that portray law enforcement as aggressors when they are merely maintaining peace. There might be a deliberate effort to provoke security forces into reacting so that the opposition can claim victimhood,” Dr. Mhlanga cautioned.
Another security expert, Peter Dube, echoed similar concerns, emphasising that authorities are well-prepared to counter these tactics.
He disclosed that he has learnt that security agencies have compiled a comprehensive list of individuals suspected of planning violence and will be closely monitoring their movements.
“This is not a spontaneous protest by concerned citizens; this is an orchestrated ploy by known elements seeking to create chaos. Security forces have conducted thorough surveillance and are aware of the identities of the ringleaders. Any attempts to destabilise the country will be met with decisive action. I encourage bona fide members of the public to co-operate with law enforcement agents by carrying their national identification documents at all times,” Dube stated.
Authorities have urged law-abiding citizens to carry proper identification documents to prevent unnecessary inconvenience during security checks.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, assured the public that security forces are on high alert to prevent any disruption of peace and order in the capital and other targeted areas.
As March 31 approaches, authorities have assured the nation that measures are in place to prevent lawlessness, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police.
