Senior cop arrested in drug bust

A senior police officer was arrested on Monday following a high-speed chase on the Masvingo–Beitbridge Road after he was allegedly found in unlawful possession of illicit drugs valued at about US$19,000.

Inspector Pikirai Dade Hakata (53), who is responsible for overseeing police operations in Harare's Mbare district, was arrested together with his alleged accomplice, Ringisai Mapirwe (31), a known drug dealer from Dzivarasekwa.

The incident occurred when Inspector Hakata, who was driving a silver Toyota Aqua registered in the name of Oliver Musekiwa of Harare, allegedly attempted to evade a police checkpoint along the busy highway. His actions raised suspicion, prompting officers manning the checkpoint to give chase.

After a brief pursuit, the vehicle was intercepted less than five kilometres from the checkpoint. Officers then escorted the car back to the roadblock, where a detailed search was conducted.

During the search, police allegedly recovered 83 cobs of dagga hidden in the vehicle's boot and back seat. The drugs were reportedly wrapped in brown cello tape and covered with a blanket in an apparent attempt to conceal them.

Inspector Hakata and Mapirwe were subsequently arrested and taken to the Masvingo Criminal Investigations Department's Drugs and Narcotics Unit. They are now facing charges related to unlawful possession of illicit drugs, with investigations still ongoing.

The arrest of a senior police officer has sent shockwaves through law enforcement circles, raising fresh concerns about corruption and the involvement of some officers in drug-related crimes.