By Crime and Courts Reporter–The Joint Operations Command (JOC) has placed the leader of another faction of military veterans under surveillance, heightening concerns over state repression of dissenting voices.

JOC, which comprises the CIO, Police, Army, Air force, and Prisons, is widely known for its role in the surveillance, abduction, and disappearance of anti-Zanu PF citizens under the guise of protecting national security.

Sources reveal that the security cluster, operating through the Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO), has instructed border officials at the Plumtree border post to alert the police if they spot Zimbabwe National Liberation War Veterans Association leader Andreas Mathibela attempting to leave the country.

Mathibela, like Blessed Geza—who is now in exile—has been vocal in his criticism of President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s rule, demanding his resignation.

NewsDay has established that Mathibela has been placed on a government watch list. 

A leaked letter from the President’s Department, addressed to the regional immigration officer at Plumtree, reads:

Ref: Request for Watch-List for Persons of Security Interest

This office kindly requests that you watch-list the following person of security interest, a Zimbabwean national: Ethan Mathibela.

Should the said individual present himself at Plumtree, Maitengwe, or Mphoengs border posts, your office is instructed to deny him exit and inform the President’s Department.

Your usual cooperation is greatly appreciated.

Mathibela confirmed he was aware of the watch-listing.

“Indeed, this is what we have gathered, and it is obviously concerning for me and my family, especially in case of any attempts to kidnap me,” he said.

“I am making arrangements to ensure my family’s safety.”