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Harare municipal cop jailed for bribery and obstruction of justice
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A municipal officer, Mugove Chiradza (56), has been sentenced to two years in prison after being convicted of bribery and obstruction of justice by the Harare Magistrates' Court.
The court heard that Chiradza and his colleagues from the Harare City Municipal Police confiscated equipment from a business operating snooker tables at Westgate roundabout, claiming the business was unlicensed and operating in a prohibited area.
The Raid and Bribery Attempt
On July 1, 2024, Chiradza and his team seized two tents, 13 snooker balls, and eight snooker sticks from the complainant's business. A week later, Chiradza contacted the business owner, demanding a bribe of USD 60 to facilitate the return of the seized items.
The complainant reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). On July 9, a trap was set, leading to Chiradza's arrest when he attempted to collect the bribe.
Evidence Tampering
While out on bail, Chiradza attempted to obstruct justice by tampering with evidence. Prosecutors revealed that he instructed his subordinates to add the confiscated items to the municipal exhibition book and forged the complainant's signature on official documents to falsify records.
Sentencing
Magistrate's Court found Chiradza guilty of both bribery and obstruction of justice, sentencing him to an effective two years in prison.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public service, with ZACC emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to such offenses.
The court heard that Chiradza and his colleagues from the Harare City Municipal Police confiscated equipment from a business operating snooker tables at Westgate roundabout, claiming the business was unlicensed and operating in a prohibited area.
The Raid and Bribery Attempt
On July 1, 2024, Chiradza and his team seized two tents, 13 snooker balls, and eight snooker sticks from the complainant's business. A week later, Chiradza contacted the business owner, demanding a bribe of USD 60 to facilitate the return of the seized items.
The complainant reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC). On July 9, a trap was set, leading to Chiradza's arrest when he attempted to collect the bribe.
Evidence Tampering
While out on bail, Chiradza attempted to obstruct justice by tampering with evidence. Prosecutors revealed that he instructed his subordinates to add the confiscated items to the municipal exhibition book and forged the complainant's signature on official documents to falsify records.
Sentencing
Magistrate's Court found Chiradza guilty of both bribery and obstruction of justice, sentencing him to an effective two years in prison.
The case highlights ongoing efforts to combat corruption in public service, with ZACC emphasizing a zero-tolerance approach to such offenses.
Source - NewZimbabwe
