HARARE - A 43-year-old murder suspect is battling for life after he was shot by police officers while fleeing from arrest.

Magistrate Tendai Mahwe yesterday had to travel to Parirenyatwa Hospital to remand Richard Timba. The case will be heard again on January 24.

The court heard Timba and his three accomplices, who are still at large, went to Spell Bound Electronics armed with a pistol.

The four approached the now deceased Thomas Amidu Sakirai, employed as an airtime vendor, and produced a pistol before ordering him to surrender all the money he had, the court heard.

According to state papers, Timba sprayed Sakirai with an unknown substance.

Sakirai allegedly shouted for help, at the same time trying to escape.

The court heard Timba fired three shots that hit Sakirai on the armpit leading to his death on the spot.

Timba and his accomplices allegedly ransacked the shop, stole money and a Nokia cellphone before fleeing.
 
Police officers, acting on a tip-off, waylaid Timba at his place of residence and shot him while he was attempting to flee.

He was taken to hospital where he is receiving treatment.