State agents attacked at least 10 persons in Chimanimani including a nine-year-old boy. One of the victims of the attack was beaten by soldiers and sustained a fractured skull. In Bindura, an 11-month-old infant was taken into custody along with its parents and beaten by a police officer. MDC President Morgan Tsvangirai escaped unhurt after an attack on his convoy that was travelling in Kadoma West.
There have also been reports of widespread attacks on civil servants in October, particularly focused on teachers. This is the continuation of intimidation and threats since January; civil servants have been ordered to support Zanu (PF) in numerous rallies throughout the year.
In addition, in July 2001 Foreign Minister Stan Mudenge and Education, Sports and Culture Minister Samuel Mumbengegwi threatened principals and teachers of teacher training colleges that they could be killed for supporting the MDC.
High levels of violence were recorded in Gokwe where a militia of approximately 500 Zanu (PF) supporters is reported to have set up bases at Tenda and Mashumba primary schools. Torture centres were also established at each school.
Three deaths were reported in October including one victim who was allegedly killed by official state agents.
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