Corrupt prosecutor convicted in high-profile bribery scandal
In a significant victory for the fight against corruption, a public prosecutor stationed at the Harare Magistrates’ Court has been convicted of fraud alongside his co-accused, Alex Tombe. The conviction follows their attempt to solicit a US$20,000 bribe from a relative of a high-profile convict.
According to court records, the incident occurred on November 15th, 2023, when the first accused, Pardon Dziva, allegedly demanded the substantial bribe from Wellington Takavarasha. Dziva’s objective was to facilitate a lighter sentence for Henrietta Rushwaya, who had been convicted of smuggling by a Harare High Court judge.
Takavarasha promptly informed Rushwaya’s sister, Helliate Rushwaya, about Dziva’s corrupt demand. Helliate then reported the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police Anti-Corruption Unit, who set a trap for the accused individuals.
The sting operation unfolded as Helliate Rushwaya agreed to meet the accused persons at the CABS Centre. There, the second accused, Alex Tombe, approached Helliate and indicated that he had been sent to collect the money on behalf of Dziva. However, Helliate refused to hand over the funds and instead insisted on delivering the trap money directly to Dziva.
The group then drove to the Kebbab Restaurant in Milton Park, where Dziva proceeded to Helliate’s vehicle and received the trap money. Moments later, both Dziva and Tombe were arrested by the waiting law enforcement officers.
The accused individuals will now appear in court on June 4th, 2024, for a pre-sentencing hearing. This conviction serves as a stark warning to public officials who may be tempted to abuse their positions of trust for personal gain.
This high-profile case sends a clear message that the era of impunity for corrupt practices in Zimbabwe is over, paving the way for a more transparent and accountable justice system.
