Vusumuzi Dube
A public prosecutor at Bulawayo’s Tredgold Magistrates’ Court has been arrested and charged with bribery involving US$200, authorities announced on Tuesday.
Bhekimpilo Moyo (35) was taken into custody after allegedly soliciting a US$200 bribe from the complainant in a “malicious damage to property” case he was prosecuting on July 10, 2024.
According to a National Prosecution Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) report, Moyo approached the complainant and her brother, who was the defendant in the case and took them to his office.
He then allegedly demanded the US$200 bribe in exchange for a non-custodial sentence for the brother.
Moyo reportedly told the complainant that failure to pay the bribe would result in her brother receiving a prison sentence of 10 to 25 years.
The complainant paid US$50 that day and an additional US$150 the following day but Moyo then allegedly demanded another US$250.
The complainant recorded the conversation on her phone and subsequently filed a police report, leading to Moyo’s arrest.
He was expected to appear in court on Wednesday for bail hearing. Moyo’s case has sparked outrage and raised concerns about corruption within the justice system.
The incident has also raised questions about the integrity of public prosecutors and the need for greater accountability.
The arrest is seen as a significant step towards combating corruption and ensuring that those who abuse their power are held accountable.
New Ziana
Bongani Ndlovu