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THE Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Dorothy Mauchaza, an Assistant Accountant at the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, on charges of Criminal Abuse of Duty.
The arrest follows allegations that Mauchaza corruptly issued an Assisted Medical Treatment Order (AMTO) to cover hospital bills amounting to ZiG 16 253 for Robson Chisango, a patient admitted at Victoria Chitepo Provincial Hospital in Mutare.
According to ZACC communications manager Ms Simiso Mlevu, Mauchaza is accused of colluding with Phillip Sofirinyoto, an employee at the hospital, to fraudulently issue the AMTO. The order, which was billed to the Ministry of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare, covered Chisango’s medical expenses from 10 to 17 December 2024.
AMTOs are a government initiative under the Department of Social Welfare, designed to assist individuals who cannot afford medical treatment by covering their expenses in government hospitals. However, ZACC alleges that Mauchaza and Sofirinyoto abused this system for personal gain.
Mauchaza appeared in court and was remanded out of custody, with the case set to resume on 13 March 2025. ZACC has reiterated its commitment to rooting out corruption in public institutions, warning that those who abuse their positions for personal enrichment will face the full force of the law.
This case highlights growing concerns over the misuse of public funds in Zimbabwe, particularly in sectors meant to support vulnerable citizens. ZACC has urged members of the public to report any suspicious activities as part of efforts to safeguard public resources.
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