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Ex-prosecutor jailed for soliciting US$200 bribe
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A former public prosecutor stationed at Tredgold Magistrates Court in Bulawayo has been jailed for three years after he was convicted of soliciting and accepting a bribe to influence the outcome of a criminal case.
Bhekimpilo Moyo (35) was sentenced to five years in prison for bribery, with two years suspended on condition of good behaviour, meaning he will serve an effective three-year custodial term.
The court heard that Moyo demanded and received US$200 from Betty House, the sister of an accused person, as an inducement to secure a lenient sentence for her brother, Bothwell House, who was facing charges of malicious damage to property.
According to the prosecution, Moyo did not stop there. On July 10, 2024, he allegedly requested an additional US$250 from the complainant. Sensing exploitation and wrongdoing, Betty House reported the matter to the authorities, leading to Moyo's swift arrest and prosecution.
In the aftermath of the conviction, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) issued a strong statement condemning corruption within the justice system.
"We will not tolerate criminality or bribery within our ranks. The integrity of the justice system must be protected at all costs," the NPAZ said. "Members of the public are encouraged to report all members of the NPAZ or the justice system who solicit bribes."
The case has sparked renewed calls for greater transparency and accountability among judicial officers, as Zimbabwe continues efforts to tackle corruption within public institutions.
Bhekimpilo Moyo (35) was sentenced to five years in prison for bribery, with two years suspended on condition of good behaviour, meaning he will serve an effective three-year custodial term.
The court heard that Moyo demanded and received US$200 from Betty House, the sister of an accused person, as an inducement to secure a lenient sentence for her brother, Bothwell House, who was facing charges of malicious damage to property.
According to the prosecution, Moyo did not stop there. On July 10, 2024, he allegedly requested an additional US$250 from the complainant. Sensing exploitation and wrongdoing, Betty House reported the matter to the authorities, leading to Moyo's swift arrest and prosecution.
In the aftermath of the conviction, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) issued a strong statement condemning corruption within the justice system.
"We will not tolerate criminality or bribery within our ranks. The integrity of the justice system must be protected at all costs," the NPAZ said. "Members of the public are encouraged to report all members of the NPAZ or the justice system who solicit bribes."
The case has sparked renewed calls for greater transparency and accountability among judicial officers, as Zimbabwe continues efforts to tackle corruption within public institutions.
Source - NewZimbabwe
