An unverified picture allegedly to be of Central Intelligence Organisation director of security Albert Ngulube is circulating on social media.
Ngulube was arrested near Mugabe’s home, just after briefing Mugabe on the security situation in the country.
He reportedly stopped when he saw army tankers going in the direction of Mugabe’s home and asked the troops where they were going.
The soldiers, however, seized him as he was among a group of people targeted for capture to ensure Mugabe is isolated from his key security and political personnel.
“They took his cellphone, watch and gold chain and later detained and interrogated him. He was heavily battered. He has some cracks on his head and could have died,” said an official.
An official said a military officer, who was not happy with Ngulube’s beating, informed senior army officials of his plight, resulting in the intervention of top commanders to secure his release.
Ngulube was released on Wednesday, taken to the hospital and later home.