Harare, Zimbabwe – November 6, 2024

Two police officers, Sergeant James Chifamba (46) and Constable Trymore Mukunza (36), were arraigned in court yesterday on allegations of criminal abuse of office after reportedly being captured on video accepting bribes from motorists. The officers appeared before Harare Magistrate Mrs. Marehwanazvo Gofa, who remanded them in custody until November 11.

The officers face charges of breaching Section 174(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which governs criminal abuse of duty by public officers. This statute criminalizes any act by a public officer that involves misuse of their official position for personal gain or advantage. Legal precedent in Zimbabwe, including State v. Ncube (2015), has reinforced that officers are held to high standards of integrity, with misuse of office leading to severe repercussions.

Prosecutor Mr. Anesu Chirenje outlined the State’s case, alleging that Chifamba and Mukunza, while assigned to enforce traffic laws at the Mabvuku traffic lights along Mutare Road, disregarded their official duties by accepting cash bribes from drivers. The prosecution claims that the accused officers would halt vehicles without checking for violations and then demand money in exchange for permitting the motorists to proceed without inspection. This alleged behavior, the State argued, directly contravenes their assigned responsibilities and constitutes abuse of office for personal benefit.

The prosecution has submitted that video evidence captures the alleged acts of bribery, which could substantiate the accusations of misconduct and lend weight to the charges.

Both the State and defense counsel are set to file written submissions by tomorrow. The court is expected to issue a ruling on November 11, which will determine the next steps in the case.