By Chrispen Tabvura|Following the arrest of Sgt Kwashirai of Police Protection Unit and another unidentified police officer at an unsanctioned road-block in Kuwadzana Extension, recently, motorists in Bulawayo and Harare are now on full alert for fake road blocks.
Several motorists from Bulawayo yesterday vowed to end police corruption for what they termed ‘Policing the Police’, who they accuse of turning into criminals in government uniform.
“We need to end this corrupt situation that is rocking our police force,” said Vusa Bhebhe a businessman from the City of Kings.
His sentiments were echoed by those of retired Chief Inspector Silas Moyo, who was in the Police Traffic section in the early 90s. “We need to bring back the lost police pride and professionalism. Police these days has been invaded by young men who do not join the force for duty, but do it to make money and get rich via crude tactics,” he said.
Sgt Kwashirai who was manning an unofficial road block in Kuwadzana, ran out of luck after having arrested a white motorist and over-charged him. The arrested man then demanded to be taken to a nearest Police Station for dialogue with the Officer in charge.
According to police sources who attended to the case in question, Sgt Kwashirai instead of taking the motorist to the nearest station, bolted to his car and sped off, before he got involved in an accident that led to his arrest and detention. His other accomplices are also in custody awaiting the completion of investigations.
The police sources also told ZimEye.com that the other officers present, were involved in an accident while trying to avoid humiliation, leading to Sgt Kwashirai being apprehended by members of public and found with a fake Retention Book as well as money amounting to US$800.
According to police sources close to the case, Sgt was immediately detained at Kuwadzana Police Station.
Efforts by ZimEye.com to obtain a comment from Police National Spokesperson Charity Charamba hit a brickwall as her phone kept ringing without being answered.