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3 cops jailed for extortion
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Three police officers have been sentenced to 30 months imprisonment for extortion by a Rusape magistrate, following their conviction for demanding money from a resident under false pretenses.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) confirmed the sentencing of Shepherd Muzvidza (36), Justice Chaka (37), and Trust Mudzitirwa (39), who were accused of abusing their authority to extort US$400 from a complainant.
The Incident
The officers received a tip-off alleging that the complainant had illegally bypassed a Zesa electricity meter. Acting on the information, they visited the individual's home, where they threatened to arrest the complainant unless they were paid.
According to the NPAZ statement, the complainant, under duress, handed over the money to avoid arrest.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Despite pleading not guilty, the trio were found culpable. They were sentenced to 30 months imprisonment, with the following conditions applied: Nine months of the sentence were suspended for three years on the condition of good behavior. An additional three months were suspended on condition of restitution to the complainant. The remaining 18 months were suspended on the condition that each officer completes 380 hours of community service.
This case underscores efforts by the judiciary to address corruption and abuse of power within law enforcement agencies. It also highlights the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions.
The NPAZ has encouraged members of the public to report such cases, emphasizing the need to foster transparency and integrity in public institutions.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) confirmed the sentencing of Shepherd Muzvidza (36), Justice Chaka (37), and Trust Mudzitirwa (39), who were accused of abusing their authority to extort US$400 from a complainant.
The Incident
The officers received a tip-off alleging that the complainant had illegally bypassed a Zesa electricity meter. Acting on the information, they visited the individual's home, where they threatened to arrest the complainant unless they were paid.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Despite pleading not guilty, the trio were found culpable. They were sentenced to 30 months imprisonment, with the following conditions applied: Nine months of the sentence were suspended for three years on the condition of good behavior. An additional three months were suspended on condition of restitution to the complainant. The remaining 18 months were suspended on the condition that each officer completes 380 hours of community service.
This case underscores efforts by the judiciary to address corruption and abuse of power within law enforcement agencies. It also highlights the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions.
The NPAZ has encouraged members of the public to report such cases, emphasizing the need to foster transparency and integrity in public institutions.
Source - newsday
