By A Correspondent

Nine vendors are in custody facing charges of public violence after a confrontation with Harare municipal police officers during a weekend crackdown on illegal vending.

The accused are Regis Karavhina, 43, Mduduzi Ndhlovu, 27, Blessed Chinhema, 34, Tinotenda Muhlupeki, 24, Smart Mafuku, 30, Tatenda Pfuwai, 30, John Mahlangu, 24, Tsungirirai Sanito, 19, and Ezra Besamu, 17.

According to court papers, council police were carrying out Operation Chenesai Guta when they encountered the group trading from undesignated sites. Prosecutors allege the nine incited resistance among other vendors, resulting in stones being thrown at the enforcement team.

One of the stones allegedly struck and damaged a POTRAZ-owned Nissan Almera, with repair costs estimated at US$200 for the dented fender.

Three suspects were arrested at the scene and taken to Harare Central Police Station, where investigations led to the arrest of the remaining six.

They were remanded in custody and are expected back in court as proceedings continue.