On June 24, 2022, Zimbabwe Republic Police arrested more than a dozen student leaders at the University of Zimbabwe during a peaceful demonstration against a 1000% tuition fee increase announced by the university administration. The protest had been organized by the Zimbabwe National Students Union (ZINASU) after attempts to engage university authorities in dialogue failed.

Police officers stormed the university campus, using batons and tear gas to disperse the gathering of approximately 100 students. Student leaders Lenon Mazuru, Samuel Gwenzi, and Tafadzwa Ngadziore were among those arrested and held at Harare Central Police Station. They were charged with “disorderly conduct” and “participating in a gathering with intent to promote public violence” under Section 37 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act.

While in custody, several students reported physical assault by police officers. Defense lawyers from the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) were initially denied access to their clients. After 48 hours in detention, the students were released on bail with conditions prohibiting them from participating in further demonstrations.

This incident was part of a broader pattern of repression against student activism in Zimbabwe. Throughout 2021-2022, university student leaders faced surveillance, arbitrary arrest, and academic sanctions for their advocacy work. Many universities implemented politically motivated disciplinary procedures against student activists, resulting in suspensions and expulsions that disrupted their academic careers.