Following the denial of bail to 78 Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) activists at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts, clashes erupted between riot police and CCC supporters. The incident resulted in the arrest of several CCC demonstrators. Three CCC supporters were initially detained by riot police before the release of the 78 activists on bail. After Magistrate Ruth Moyo denied bail, police forcibly removed disgruntled CCC supporters from the courthouse. During the melee, police targeted a woman believed to be the wife of Professor Hondongwa, one of the activists denied bail. She was apprehended along with two other men. The woman was allegedly taken to Harare Central Police Station, accused of displaying a sign with the message “#Free Teacher Hondongwa #Free Timba #Free Avondale 78.” Inspector Luckmore Chakanza, Harare provincial police spokesman, expressed unfamiliarity with the incident, redirecting inquiries to Commissioner Paul Nyathi, national police spokesman, whose phone was reportedly unavailable. Meanwhile, Magistrate Moyo justified the denial of bail, citing concerns about undermining the rule of law, compromising public safety, and damaging confidence in the police. Prosecutor Thomas Chanakira claimed that on June 16, police received information about an unauthorized meeting at Timba’s residence, which was allegedly preparing for an unlawful demonstration. Chanakira stated that police officers were injured during the subsequent response to the gathering. The incident has been met with allegations of excessive force used by the police.Supporters of arrested Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) members clashed with police outside the Harare Magistrates Court on Monday. The clash erupted after CCC vice chairperson Job Sikhala and 13 other party members were denied bail. Police fired teargas and water cannons to disperse the crowd, while protesters threw stones and bottles. Several people were reportedly injured in the melee. The CCC supporters had gathered outside the court in solidarity with Sikhala and the other party members, who were arrested last week on charges of inciting public violence and participating in an illegal gathering. The arrests sparked outrage among CCC supporters, who allege that the charges are politically motivated. Police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the clash and said that several people had been arrested. He urged the public to remain calm and avoid violence. The CCC has condemned the police’s actions and accused them of using excessive force. The party has also called for the unconditional release of Sikhala and the other arrested members. The incident comes amid heightened political tensions in Zimbabwe. The CCC, led by former finance minister Tendai Biti, is the main opposition party to President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s ruling ZANU-PF party.