dyton mupawaenda
Zvikomborero Parafini
THE two rogue police officers, who turned Mabvuku turn off roadblock into their cash cow, receiving bribes from motorists, were denied bail on Friday.
Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa said the two are not suitable candidates for bail.
She ruled that due to the seriousness of the offence, their risk of abscondment is high as the State has managed to prove that there’s reasonable suspicion that the offence was committed.
She said they did not give any meaningful defence in their bail application.
Sergeant James Chifamba and Constable Trymore Mukunza initially appeared in court two weeks ago.
The two were caught on camera accepting bribes from drivers of kombis, taxis and public service vehicles.
The video that went viral, leading to their arrest.
They are being charged with criminal abuse of duty.
The State alleged that on November 2, the two were deployed to conduct traffic enforcement duties.
They had specific orders to stop motor vehicles and check for any violations.
It is the State’s case that contrary to their assigned duties, the two would not check for violations but proceeded to wait for the drivers of vehicles to approach them, have a brief conversation and receive bribes.
The State claims that through their actions, they showed favour to the motorists in question, acting contrary to their duties.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter