NetOne Masvingo regional manager John Zvirikuzhe has been arrested for allegedly assaulting Herald's Masvingo reporter George Maponga last week. Zvirikuzhe (38) of Rhodene suburb in Masvingo allegedly teamed up with three friends and attacked Maponga (31) with empty beer bottles. It is suspected Zvirikuzhe was angered after learning that Maponga was investigating his suspension from NetOne over an alleged sim card scam.

Maponga sustained deep cuts on the left hand and was attended at Masvingo General Hospital where he had eight stitches.

Masvingo police spokesperson Inspector Peter Zhanero yesterday confirmed Zvirikuzhe's arrest and said investigations were in progress.

He said they were looking for Zvirikuzhe's alleged accomplices.

"The suspect (Zvirikuzhe) was arrested for striking Maponga with a bottle at Stop Over business centre," said Insp Zhanero.

"He attacked Maponga with the help of three others who are still at large and we are charging him with assault. He will appear in court once investigations have been completed."

Zimbabwe Union of Journalists national committee member Godfrey Mtimba condemned the attack on Maponga.

He said journalists should not be intimidated by people no matter how powerful they are.