Defendant Sought by Police for Allegedly Intimidating Court Witness
Harare- HARARE magistrate Gamuchirai Gore has issued a warrant of arrest against Molly Albertinah Chirongoma (55) for allegedly insulting and attempting to intimidate a witness, instructing him to cease testifying in her friend’s case.
Chirongoma is facing charges of defeating the course of justice. The arrest warrant was issued after she failed to appear in court for her hearing.
The complainant, Kirk Woest, a Consultant and vehicle manager, reported that on April 10, 2024, at the Harare Magistrates Court, Chirongoma confronted him as he exited the courtroom. Woest was serving as a witness in a case involving James Landon, Chirongoma’s friend, and Ronald Nyandoro.
According to the court, Chirongoma began shouting at Woest, pointing her finger at him, and instructing him to stop testifying. Mukumbi Shadreck, a prison officer present at the scene, intervened and ordered Chirongoma to cease her actions. Subsequently, Chirongoma was called by Landon before she entered a car and left the premises.
Following the incident, a police report was filed, leading to an investigation and the subsequent arrest of Chirongoma. Mrs. Gore’s decision to issue a warrant highlights the seriousness of the charges and the importance of ensuring that witnesses can testify without fear of intimidation.
