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The Herald, 6 September, 1985
THREE policemen yesterday appeared before a Harare magistrate in connection with the Harare Show scandal when members of the public were allegedly allowed in for bribes less than the entry fee.
The three, Washington Machingauta (26), Nicholas Mutafuni (24) and Abraham Karamatsenga (33) were remanded on bail of $40 each by Harare magistrate Mr Alfas Chitakunye.
The court was told by Mr Obert Gutu, who appeared for the State, that the three would be charged with contravening section 3 (a) of the Prevention of Corruption Act which forbids anyone receiving a reward for any act done in relation to the principles of business.
Mr Gutu will allege that the three were members of the Zimbabwe Republic Police on duty at the agricultural show. They were on leave from August 26 to August 31, show week, but volunteered their services for paid duties at the show.
They were assigned to gate duties, checking members of the public entering the gates and ensuring they had either tickets or badges allowing entry.
Mr Gutu will allege that groups of youths let in people free of charge using exhibitors’ badges in return for a payment below that demanded by the show society. Once the youths had been paid, they allegedly handed over the money to the three policemen.
These exchanges were seen by Herald reporters, the court was told, and The Herald alerted 2 senior police officers.
LESSONS FOR TODAY
Last week was show week. Dozens of law enforcement agents were in attendance to ensure that show goers enjoyed their experience in peace.
But in the past some members of the Police have also been found on the wrong side of the law – facing allegations of misconduct and bribery.
The impact of corruption among the police is profound, affecting public trust, increasing crime rates, facilitating abuse of power, obstructing access to justice, undermining governance structures, and imposing economic burdens on businesses.
Online Reporter