HARARE, Aug. 2 (Xinhua) -- The death toll in Zimbabwe's post-election violence that erupted in central Harare Wednesday has risen to six, police said Thursday.
Police spokeswoman Charity Charamba told a press conference that the situation in Harare remained tense a day after the skirmishes which also left scores of people injured and property destroyed.
Opposition MDC Alliance supporters on Wednesday clashed with security forces as they protested against the delay in announcement of presidential election results, resulting in the deployed soldiers opening fire to disperse the protesters.
Charamba said some of the supporters were visibly drunk as they went on a rampage, smashing vehicles, breaking into shops and even beating up people in the streets.
International observers have since denounced the violent protests as well as the use of excessive force by the security forces.
Charamba said police had so far arrested 26 people including a former ZANU-PF legislator in connection with the violence.
"We urge the people to remain calm and peaceful. Our investigations have established that the number of deaths, and it is really regrettable and unfortunate, has risen to six as three of the victims succumbed to injuries while receiving medical attention at various hospitals. We deeply express our condolences as the Zimbabwe Republic Police," Charamba said.
She urged political party leaders to desist from inciting violence and to approach the courts for redress.
She said police were still in need of military assistance to maintain law and order after the skirmishes.
"Police are firmly on the ground monitoring and patrolling the Harare Central Business district and surrounding areas to maintain law and order," Charamba said.
