Immigration ‘bribe' probe underway

Government is investigating immigration officials who allegedly demanded a bribe from a foreigner at the Robert Gabriel Mugabe International Airport in Harare recently.

In a statement, the Ministry of Home Affairs and Cultural Heritage said it had taken note of a viral video on social media platforms posted by a lady who identified herself as African Tigress. The Ministry said the lady recounted her traumatic experience as she sought to enter Zimbabwe through the airport.

"Immigration officials are alleged to have attempted to extort money from the visiting foreign national. The alleged bribery attempts by immigration officials are not only deplorable, but out of sync with the expected ethical conduct by staff manning our ports of entry and exit.

"The unprofessional and criminal conduct by immigration officials does not reflect our attitudes and decorum as a nation towards our visitors. Traditionally, Zimbabweans are renowned for their hospitality and friendliness to visitors," said the statement.

"We take this opportunity to advise the nation that investigations are currently underway to ascertain the facts and anyone caught on the wrong side or the law will be dealt with accordingly. The nation will be kept abreast of developments," the statement added.

The ministry apologised for the ordeal that the lady went through and reaffirmed its zero tolerance on corruption.