Four Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) officials are facing charges of extortion and criminal abuse of duty after allegedly demanding a US$6,000 bribe from a transport operator.
The arrests, carried out by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), highlight ongoing efforts to combat corruption within Zimbabwe’s public sector.
The accused, identified as Maguta Jonathan, Mitwira Obert, Homera Simon, and Gwatirinda Paul, are all revenue officers. Their alleged crime involved the impounding of a bus belonging to Best Express Logistics, a company directed by Beatrice Maramwidze.
According to ZACC, the bus was seized during a ZIMRA anti-smuggling operation. Despite Best Express Logistics having already paid ZWL55,000 in excess duty, the four ZIMRA officials allegedly demanded an additional US$6,000 to facilitate the release of the vehicle.
Maramwidze, demonstrating commendable civic responsibility, reported the extortion attempt to ZACC. This triggered an investigation that led to the arrest of the four revenue officers.
The arrest took place while the ZIMRA officials were in a ZIMRA-branded vehicle. At the time of their apprehension, they had already received a partial payment of US$1,500. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered an additional US$3,951, which ZACC believes to be part of the extorted funds.
The four suspects are currently being held at Avondale Police Station in Harare. They are scheduled to appear in Harare Magistrate Court on Saturday, 11 January 2025, to answer to the charges against them. The charges include extortion, with an alternative charge of criminal abuse of duty as public officers.
The incident underscores the persistent challenge of corruption within Zimbabwe’s institutions. The swift action taken by ZACC demonstrates a commitment to tackling such abuses of power. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of reporting corrupt practices.
In a statement released following the arrests, ZACC urged members of the public and the business community to remain vigilant and report any instances of corruption they encounter. The commission emphasised its dedication to investigating and prosecuting all forms of corruption, regardless of the individuals involved.
