(Last Updated on September 12, 2012 by Editor)
ZIMBABWE – A SWISS tourist was on Saturday arrested in Kariba for insulting President Mugabe after he went into a verbal rage during immigration formalities.
Fischer Thomas (age not given) of Rebstock 2, 8595 Altnau, Switzerland was driving from Zambia to Mana Pools National Park for camping together with his wife Fischer Friedegard Marion (54) when they stopped at Kariba Border Post for immigration procedures.
However, as they were being attended to, Thomas allegedly had a misunderstanding with a Zimra official whom he accused of delaying him.
In the ensuing verbal exchange, he allegedly insulted President Mugabe accusing him of mistreating foreigners. Mashonaland West Provincial spokesperson Inspector Clemence Mabgweazara confirmed the arrest.
“Our detectives in Kariba have arrested a Swiss national in connection with statements he is alleged to have made that insulted the Republic of Zimbabwe President Mugabe,” said Insp Mabgweazara. “Fischer Thomas reportedly had a misunderstanding with a Zimra official whom he accused of delay.
“During the exchange of words Thomas allegedly said: “Mugabe is ****, him and his people know how to screw people especially foreigners”.
Insp Mabgweazara said officers who were processing the man’s papers reported the matter to the principal immigration officer Mr Moses Mutepfe who in turn advised the police.
Thomas appeared at Kariba magistrates’ courts on Monday charged with contravening Section 33(2)(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act for undermining the authority of or insulting President.
He has since been summoned to appear in court today when the Attorney General is expected to have granted authority to proceed with prosecution. Insp Mabgweazara said all immigrants are bound by the laws of the country and should not expect special treatment.