Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
A 35-YEAR-OLD policeman, who was based at Milton Park Police Station in Harare, has been jailed for an effective 10 months after he received a US$15 bribe from a motorist during an illegal operation.
The incident occurred in Mandava, Zvishavane, where the cop, Abel Musimeki alleged that the vehicle, a Toyota Fun Cargo was not properly registered before demanding the cash.
In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) said, “A serving police officer, Abel Musimeki (35), has been convicted and sentenced to an effective 10 months’ imprisonment by the Zvishavane Magistrates’ Court for criminal abuse of duty after he unlawfully demanded and received US$15 from a motorist during an illegal stop.
“On the 19th of September 2024, at Ruswa Complex in Mandava, the offender based at ZRP Milton Park in Harare stopped a Toyota Fun Cargo, alleging it was not properly registered.
“He ordered the driver to locate the car owner, Edwin Rangarirai Mahosi, an auto- electrician. Upon meeting the victim in Mandava, the offender falsely claimed to be on an official vehicle licensing operation and threatened to impound the car unless he was paid. Out of fear, the victim handed over US$15.”
NPAZ said that after consulting a friend, the victim became suspicious and reported the matter to the police. Musimeki was later tracked down and arrested.
He was sentenced to 16 months in prison of which four months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, a further two months were suspended on condition that he restitutes the victim, the amount of US$15.
The NPAZ said, “Law enforcement officers are entrusted with upholding the law, not abusing their authority for personal gain. This conviction reinforces the NPAZ’s commitment to rooting out corruption and maintaining public trust in the justice delivery system.”
Online Reporter