Sundaymail Editor
Rogue members of the defence forces and civil service are using fraudulent methods to secure bank loans, The Sunday Mail has established.
Members of the defence forces and civil servants have over the past few years been prioritised in securing bank loans.
However, it has emerged that some are forging letters of employment to secure loans and then disappear upon receiving payment.
Speaking at the recent 34th anniversary of the Zimbabwe National Army Pay and Records Corps in Harare, Major-General Douglas Nyikayaramba said the defence forces did not condone corruption and anyone caught on the wrong side of the law would be punished.
“Be warned that in a bid to effectively contain cases of fraud, theft and pilferage, the army is now applying stiff penalties to anyone caught on the wrong side of the law,” he said.
“I want to warn some unruly elements who take advantage of the ignorance of some retiring members to solicit for payment in order to quicken the processing of their benefits that deviance does not pay.
“You are encouraged to honour your obligations by regularising the monthly loan instalments once loans have been obtained from various financial institutions.”
Maj-Gen Nyikayaramba said some soldiers had been convicted of fraud and dismissed from the force.
He also hailed the computerisation of the Zimbabwe National Army records department though a shortage of resources was hindering progress.
Online Reporter