By Crime and Courts Reporter-A top Masvingo police officer, Superintendent Elizabeth Chipfakacha, is under investigation for allegedly extorting protection fees from local businesses.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Paul Nyathi confirmed that Commissioner General Stephen Mutamba’s office is leading the probe following a formal complaint from Masvingo’s business community.
The letter, dated October 4, 2024, accuses Chipfakacha of demanding bribes, engaging in illegal gold mining, and amassing wealth far beyond her salary.
It also calls for a lifestyle audit of her and her husband, Eddie Chipfakacha, a senior officer in the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
The complaint alleges that Chipfakacha exploits her connections with former Masvingo Officer-Commanding Chrispen Charumbira and Commissioner General Mutamba to act with impunity.
She has reportedly operated in Masvingo for nearly three decades—an unusually long tenure in the police force—exerting toxic influence and victimizing subordinates.
Chipfakacha allegedly started her extortion racket as Officer-in-Charge of Masvingo Traffic, targeting transport operators before expanding her reach after being promoted to district operations.
Business owners claim she pressures them into paying for protection and uses intimidation tactics to silence opposition.
Masvingo’s business community is demanding her immediate transfer, an investigation into her alleged gold panning activities, and the forfeiture of any illicitly acquired assets, including her lavish properties in Hillside and Rujeko.
Police corruption, particularly extortion targeting vendors and commuter omnibus operators, has long plagued Zimbabwe.
Officers often solicit bribes at roadblocks and marketplaces, preying on those who cannot afford to refuse.
The latest allegations against Chipfakacha highlight entrenched misconduct within the force.
Chipfakacha declined to comment, directing inquiries to Provincial Police Spokesperson Inspector Dhewa.
Meanwhile, Nyathi assured the public that a thorough investigation is underway and that findings will be made public.
-Masvingo Mirror