At least 40 white families fled rising violence on their farms in northwestern Zimbabwe today where some farmers were arrested earlier this week after clashes with militants occupying their properties.
Farming officials said that the pro-government militants had gone on a rampage of assault, looting and arson, and that one farmer, Mr Gel Binhuis and his family, were being held hostage on his farm after his dogs were killed.
They said the violence was around the town of Chinhoyi, where more than 20 white farmers, charged with inciting public violence after clashes on a white-owned Zimbabwean farm, returned to court today to press for bail.
Earlier today, Mr Mugabe appointed a powerful new defence minister in a cabinet reshuffle, state radio reported.
The president has appointed 11 ministers and deputy ministers into various government portfolios, the radio said.
A cabinet reshuffle had been anticipated following the deaths of Defence Minister Moven Mahachi and Youth and Gender Minister Border Gezi in car accidents earlier this year, and Industry and International Trade Minister Nkosana Moyo's resignation.
Mr Moyo's associates said the minister was frustrated with Mr Mugabe's leadership, especially after militant ruling ZANU-PF party supporters began invading businesses and allegedly extorting money earlier this year.
Mr Mugabe is battling a severe economic crisis, which many blame on government mismanagement since ZANU-PF took over the reigns of power at independence from Britain in 1980.