Harare – Two Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers, Sergeant Chifamba and Constable Gunzva, are now in custody following their arrest for allegedly soliciting bribes from public transport vehicles.
The arrests follow the release of a shocking five-minute video that went viral on social media, showing the officers accepting bribes at the Mabvuku turn-off along the Harare-Mutare Road. The video, recorded on Saturday, November 2nd, by a concerned motorist, has sparked widespread outrage and renewed calls for accountability within the ZRP.
Police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the arrests and the charges facing the two officers.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the public that Sergeant Chifamba and Constable Gunzva have been arrested and are now in detention. They are facing both disciplinary and criminal charges,” he stated.
Commissioner Nyathi’s statement underscored the severity of the situation and the ZRP’s commitment to addressing the issue.
“These are bad apples who do not deserve to be serving in the Police Service,” he declared while emphasizing the Commissioner-General’s zero-tolerance policy towards corruption.
The incident has brought renewed focus on allegations of police misconduct. The Mabvuku incident is not an isolated case. Recently, reports surfaced concerning officers stationed at the ZBC traffic lights along Beatrice Road.
These officers were allegedly stopping motorists for minor infractions, often seizing their vehicles and directing them to Mbare Police Station. There, drivers reportedly faced demands for bribes before being allowed to leave. These reports highlight a pattern of alleged corruption and abuse of power within certain sections of the ZRP.
Commissioner Nyathi’s statement directly addressed these concerns, reiterating the Commissioner-General’s unwavering commitment to upholding the law.
“The Commissioner-General of Police does not condone corruption by any police officer and will ensure that the law takes its course without fear or favour,” he stated firmly.
This commitment to transparency and accountability is crucial in restoring public trust in the ZRP, which has been eroded by numerous allegations of misconduct.
The viral video, depicting the blatant bribery at the Mabvuku turn-off, provides compelling evidence of the alleged corruption. The video’s widespread circulation on social media platforms has amplified public anger and frustration with police misconduct.
The video’s impact highlights the power of citizen journalism in exposing wrongdoing and holding authorities accountable. It also underscores the urgent need for comprehensive reforms within the ZRP to tackle corruption and restore public confidence.
