The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) continues its crackdown on corrupt police officers in Mutare, arresting two more officers this week on bribery charges.
Sergeant Chiponda Dudzai Jennifer and Constable Mutsago Glynislynn are accused of soliciting a US$90 bribe from a motorist to secure the release of their vehicle. The pair will appear in Mutare Magistrate Court on Wednesday, facing charges under the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23.
The motorist, after having their vehicle impounded, reported the alleged bribe solicitation to ZACC. A sting operation was subsequently launched, resulting in the arrest of the two officers after they accepted a reduced bribe of US$20. This latest arrest follows a series of incidents highlighting the ongoing struggle against corruption within the Mutare police force.
A ZACC investigations team, already observing police soliciting bribes from motorists, apprehended Constable Peace Muchenje and seized a roadblock declaration book. This seemingly routine seizure escalated into a violent confrontation when Makina and Gava intervened, demanding the return of the book.
The State’s case details a struggle where a ZACC investigator was forcibly removed from their vehicle, had their car keys taken, and their arm twisted. Makina and Gava then seized the declaration book and fled the scene, leaving the ZACC investigators injured. The State alleges that their actions constituted obstruction of justice and resisting a peace officer.
The assault on the ZACC investigators has sparked public outrage and raised serious concerns about police conduct and potential collusion between corrupt officers and those involved in bribery. This brazen attack represents a direct challenge to ZACC’s authority and undermines efforts to combat corruption within the police force.
While the details of the alleged bribery scheme at the roadblock remain under investigation, the assault on the ZACC investigators strongly suggests an attempt to obstruct justice and cover up corrupt activities. The assault itself marks a significant escalation of the challenges faced by those working to combat corruption in Zimbabwe. The court granted Makina and Gava US$100 bail each, with their next court appearance scheduled for 10 January 2025.
The arrest of Sergeant Chiponda and Constable Mutsago, coupled with the ongoing case against Makina and Gava, paints a worrying picture of the prevalence of corruption within the police force. These incidents highlight the urgent need for increased accountability and reform within the force to restore public trust and effectively combat corruption.
