Online Reporter
Peter Matika [email protected]
A Bulawayo-based court interpreter has been arraigned before the courts on charges of criminal abuse of office as a public officer.
Affic Sabwe, 49, who works as an interpreter at Tredgold Magistrates’ Court, was arrested on July 31 of this year.
Sabwe, according to the National Prosecution Authority (NPA), allegedly misrepresented himself as a senior court official, claiming he could influence the release of the complainant’s relative from prison.
“On the 14th to the 18th of July 2025 Sabwe allegedly approached Tatenda Jekecha and misrepresented himself as a senior court official with the ability to influence the release of Jekecha’s relative, Sunny Bhebhe, who was in remand facing rape charges,” read the outline.
Sabwe reportedly demanded US$500 in total.
On 14 July, he was allegedly given US$20 for phone calls.
“On 18 July, Jekecha and Moreblessing Chipomho (Bhebhe’s wife) reportedly handed over US$400 to Sabwe. He is said to have promised that Bhebhe would be released from Khami Prison by 25 July,” read the document.
However after the deal turned sour, Jekecha reported the matter to the police, leading to Sabwe’s arrest.
He was granted US$100 bail and was ordered to report once weekly to the Police Anti-Corruption Unit (PACU) Southern Region Offices, reside at his provided address and not to interfere with witnesses or investigations.
The matter was remanded to August 25.
Sidumisile Mabena