News / National
Bribe-taking Zimbabwean cops suspended
15 Nov 2024 at 08:29hrs | Views
Two Harare-based policemen have been suspended from duty following a viral video showing them allegedly accepting bribes from motorists along the Harare-Mutare Road, near the Mabvuku turn-off. Sergeant James Chifamba (46) and Constable Trymore Mukunza (36) now face disciplinary action and criminal charges of abuse of office as public officers.
Arrests and Investigations
In connection with the case, police have arrested a kombi driver, Tinashe Madzima (31), and a conductor, Ishmael Gonyora, who were captured in the same video offering bribes to the officers. Their vehicles, two Toyota Hiace commuter omnibuses with registration numbers ABZ 1395 and ABZ 8264, have been impounded.
Both the policemen and the implicated motorists recently appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs. Marehwanazvo Gofa and were remanded in custody.
Police Statement
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed ongoing investigations and reiterated the police's zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of the two police officers and the subsequent apprehension of a kombi driver and conductor identified in the viral video. Investigations are progressing to locate other suspects implicated in the incident," said Comm Nyathi.
The video reportedly shows Madzima and Gonyora approaching the officers to offer bribes, with the transactions caught clearly on camera.
Warning Against Bribery
Comm Nyathi urged the public to refrain from bribery and corruption, stressing that both the giver and receiver would face legal consequences.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to stop offering bribes. Swift action will be taken to ensure justice prevails," he said.
The public has been encouraged to report any incidents of corruption or bribery via the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp at 0712 800 197, or their nearest police station.
Broader Implications
This incident underscores growing public scrutiny of law enforcement conduct in Zimbabwe. Authorities have vowed to take decisive action against both police officers and civilians implicated in corruption, with the aim of restoring public trust and maintaining accountability.
The case highlights the importance of citizen vigilance and the role of social media in exposing misconduct. The trial of the implicated officers and civilians is expected to continue, with further developments anticipated as investigations unfold.
Arrests and Investigations
In connection with the case, police have arrested a kombi driver, Tinashe Madzima (31), and a conductor, Ishmael Gonyora, who were captured in the same video offering bribes to the officers. Their vehicles, two Toyota Hiace commuter omnibuses with registration numbers ABZ 1395 and ABZ 8264, have been impounded.
Both the policemen and the implicated motorists recently appeared before Harare magistrate Mrs. Marehwanazvo Gofa and were remanded in custody.
Police Statement
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed ongoing investigations and reiterated the police's zero-tolerance stance on corruption.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of the two police officers and the subsequent apprehension of a kombi driver and conductor identified in the viral video. Investigations are progressing to locate other suspects implicated in the incident," said Comm Nyathi.
The video reportedly shows Madzima and Gonyora approaching the officers to offer bribes, with the transactions caught clearly on camera.
Warning Against Bribery
Comm Nyathi urged the public to refrain from bribery and corruption, stressing that both the giver and receiver would face legal consequences.
"The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to stop offering bribes. Swift action will be taken to ensure justice prevails," he said.
The public has been encouraged to report any incidents of corruption or bribery via the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp at 0712 800 197, or their nearest police station.
Broader Implications
This incident underscores growing public scrutiny of law enforcement conduct in Zimbabwe. Authorities have vowed to take decisive action against both police officers and civilians implicated in corruption, with the aim of restoring public trust and maintaining accountability.
The case highlights the importance of citizen vigilance and the role of social media in exposing misconduct. The trial of the implicated officers and civilians is expected to continue, with further developments anticipated as investigations unfold.
Source - The Herald
