Harare, (New Ziana) – Police have dismissed as false and misleading social media reports alleging that a university student, Tafara Baynes Magodora, was kidnapped, clarifying that the individual was in fact lawfully arrested over an assault case.
On Monday, some media outlets and social media platforms were awash with the news that a student from Bindura University of Science Education (BUSE) was reportedly abducted just after public hearings into Constitutional Amendment No. 3 in Bindura.
The Jameson Timba-led Defend the Constitution Platform reported the alleged abduction of Tafara Magodora by unidentified individuals in a white twin-cab vehicle from a bus stop.
However, in a statement, national police spokesperson, Paul Nyathi said Magodora was apprehended in Bindura on March 30, 2026, following an incident in which he allegedly assaulted a fellow student on campus two days earlier, on March 28.
Authorities stressed that the circumstances surrounding the arrest had been misrepresented online, leading to unnecessary panic and speculation among members of the public.
“Reference is made to social media reports alleging the kidnapping of a university student, Tafara Baynes Magodora. The ZRP sets the record straight that Tafara Magodora was arrested in Bindura on 30/03/26 for assaulting a fellow student at the campus on 28/03/26,” said Nyathi.
Police further confirmed that the matter had since been resolved, with Magodora paying an admission of guilt fine before he was released.
Nyathi urged members of the public to exercise caution when sharing unverified information on social media, warning that the spread of false reports can undermine public confidence and disrupt ongoing investigations.
“Members of the public are encouraged to rely on official channels for accurate information,” he said.
The clarification comes amid growing concern over growing misinformation on digital platforms, particularly involving sensitive issues such as alleged abductions and criminal activity.
New Ziana
