Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
TWO Zimbabwe Republic Police officers appeared in court yesterday facing allegations of criminal abuse of duty.
They allegedly demanded money from a Chinese businessman, and his associates, in exchange for his release.
Prosper Chimbumu (35) and Paradzai Matubu (34) were brought before Harare magistrate Jessie Kufa charged with criminal abuse of duty as public officers.
The State alleges that on Monday, the two officers, who are members of the ZRP, intercepted Chinese businessman Lin Qi Hui along Teign Road in Borrowdale, Harare.
According to the State, Lin was travelling with fellow Chinese national Manliang Zhang and their driver, Ashling Marodza, when they were signalled to stop by the two officers, who were allegedly dressed in civilian clothing.
It is alleged that after introducing themselves as police officers, Chimbumu and Matubu demanded US$600 from Lin for his release after he indicated that he had left his immigration permit at home.
The court heard that the officers were driving a Honda Fit and allegedly ordered the complainants to pull over before informing them that they were conducting checks on immigration documents.
Prosecutors allege that while the officers were demanding money, Marodza became suspicious and contacted senior police officers to verify their identities.
The State further alleges that the two officers later demanded a further US$1,000 from Lin’s friends and drove with the complainant to Sky Plaza in Borrowdale in an effort to secure the money.
However, no money was paid after the complainant’s friends delayed handing over the cash while police detectives moved in to verify the officers’ identities.
It is alleged that the two later took Lin to ZRP Milton Park, where they informed him that he was under arrest for contravening immigration laws.
Investigations allegedly established that the two officers were not on official duty at the time and had no lawful authority to demand money from the Chinese businessman.
The State contends that their actions were contrary to and inconsistent with their duties as public officers.
