HARARE - A state witness in the on-going trial of MDC activists accused of killing a cop has refused to give evidence in a public court demanding to be heard in camera.

Edna Chihota, through prosecutor Edmore Nyazamba wants to give her evidence in camera saying she fears for her life.

Nyazamba told presiding judge Chinembiri Bhunu that the trial be postponed to next year to allow him to arrange for the trial to be held in camera.

If the application is allowed, the matter will be moved to Rotten Row Magistrates’ Court as this is the only place where such facilities are available.

But the defence team is objecting, saying it doubts whether Chihota was indeed threatened.

“This is a delaying tactic on the part of the state,” said Beatrice Mtetwa, the defence lawyer.

"The witness does not have any evidence which incriminates the accused. She says she cannot identify any of the accused persons,” Mtetwa said. - Xolisani Ncube