28 April 2000
South African High Commission officials continued their consular contact with Zimbabwean police investigating allegations against Mr. Obed Zilwa, the AP correspondent detained in Zimbabwe on Wednesday 26 April.
In this regard, the Mission has despatched a Note Verbale to the Zimbabwean Foreign Ministry seeking clarity on the circumstances regarding the detention of Mr. Zilwa. The mission has also today, noted its concerns with the Zimbabwean police regarding the continued detention of Mr. Zilwa after the expiry of the 48 hours required by law to either charge or release Mr. Zilwa.
Police in charge of the investigations have indicated to the mission that at this stage they are taking down cautionary statements from Mr. Zilwa. The police further indicated that a final decision to charge or release will only be made by this afternoon, Friday 28 April.
Mission officials have visited Mr. Zilwa for the second time this week and have the assurance from Mr. Zilwa that he is healthy, remains in good spirits but expresses his hope for a speedy resolution and release from custody. We share his sentiments!
In the meantime Foreign Affairs remains in constant contact with the family of Mr. Zilwa to brief them of developments.
For more information contact Ronnie Mamoepa at 082-990-4853 or (012) 351-0034/5/6
Issued by Department of Foreign Affairs
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