In the farming town of Karoi, in the north of the country, they have been joined by white-owned shops and industries, causing major disruption.

BBC: Zimbabwean farm

Later, an observer team from the Southern African Development Community (Sadc) was held for some 45 minutes by Zanu-PF supporters at a farm about 20km (13 miles) outside Karoi.

BBC: Reporters gauge Zimbabwe mood

Local observers from Zimbabwe Election Support Network, Zesn, who were accused of supporting MDC, were not spared either as some were forced to put on Zanu-PF regalia in Karoi at the weekend.

BBC: Reporters gauge Zimbabwe mood