Team of top detectives probe Mujuru

Police have set up a team of senior detectives to probe firms linked to former Vice President Dr Joice Mujuru as investigations into allegations of corruption and abuse of office levelled against her intensify.

The team has since begun the clampdown which sources say is being led by Chief Superintendent Luckson Mukazhi.

"The team has visited some of the companies to carry out investigations on the matter.

They are yet to present their findings to police officers at Police General Headquarters," an impeccable source said yesterday.

The sources could not, however, shed light on the preliminary findings fearing this could jeopardise investigations.

Last Thursday, police were issued with warrants by the courts to search Dr Mujuru and companies linked to her after she was fired from Government for behaviour inconsistent with the discharge of her duties.

Provincial magistrate Mr Vakai Chikwekwe issued the warrants in his chambers.

This followed Police Commissioner-General Augustine Chihuri's warning that they would investigate all cases of corruption without fear or favour as directed by President Mugabe.

The President slammed Dr Mujuru and her cabal at the just-ended Zanu-PF 6th National People's Congress for engaging in acts of corruption and abuse of office.

He warned that all those involved in corruption would be prosecuted.

Since then, 16 Government ministers and some deputies have been fired.

The Herald has it on good authority that a number of officials who worked with the former VP have been put on forced leave as investigations into her illegal deals widen.

Dr Mujuru reportedly extorted shareholding in firms, demanding 10 percent bribes, illicit dealings in diamonds and gold, attempting to defeat the course of justice, extorting investors, undermining the authority of President Mugabe and seeking to depose him through unconstitutional means.

The First Lady Dr Grace Mugabe exposed Dr Mujuru during her Meet the People tours.

President Mugabe has said focus should be on the implementation of the Zimbabwe Agenda for Sustainable Socio-Economic Transformation to restore economic viability. Corruption and other vices that constrict its implementation will be dealt with decisively.