Kombi crew implicated in bribing cops

Crime Reporter

A kombi driver and a conductor have been arrested on allegations of offering bribes to two policemen who were captured on camera as they allegedly pocketed bribes from motorists.

As investigations to locate suspects implicated in the case continue, the police also impounded two commuter omnibuses.

Sergeant James Chifamba (46) and Constable Trymore Mukunza (36) recently appeared before Harare magistrate, Mrs Marehwanazvo Gofa, facing charges of criminal abuse of office as public officers and were remanded in custody to November 11.

National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrests of the kombi crew.

“Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s press statement on the arrest of two police officers, Sergeant James Chifamba and Constable Trymore Mukunza, following a viral video in which the two are seen taking bribes from pirate kombis, taxis and registered public service vehicles along the Harare-Mutare Road at Mabvuku turn-off,” he said.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of a kombi driver, Tinashe Madzima (31) and a conductor, Ishamel Gonyora, at George Shopping Centre, Ruwa, on November 6 for bribery.

“The two were arrested after they were captured in the video offering bribes to the police officers. Subsequently, the police impounded two Toyota Hiace kombis, registration numbers ABZ 1395 and ABZ 8264 in connection with the incident.”

Investigations by the police revealed that Madzima was driving a Toyota Hiace while Gonyora, the conductor of the other kombi, was also captured offering a bribe to the police officers.

“The police is also pursuing other suspects who are implicated in this incident.

The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to refrain from offering bribes to police officers as swift action will be taken against them for justice to prevail.

“The public is implored to report incidents of bribery or corruption on the National Complaints Desk number (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800 197 or report at the nearest police station,” he said.