By Takudziridzwa Nyama
A 42 year old security guard from Beitbridge, Busi Phiri, has been convicted and sentenced to a fine of $400 or two months in prison for bribery.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), states that Enock Jaure and Obediah Tsanga arrived at the Beitbridge Border Post’s northbound light motor vehicle terminal from South Africa, driving a silver Honda Fit (Zimbabwean registration number AFL 9595).
When they presented the vehicle’s documents for clearance at the CID vehicle clearing post, a physical examination revealed that the number plate AFL 9595 was stolen and belonged to a different vehicle.
Jaure and Tsanga were subsequently arrested for smuggling a motor vehicle, and the vehicle documents were held as evidence. At around 1715 hours on the same day, Busi Phiri who is employed as a security guard at Beitbridge Border Post approached the CID officers who were handling the issue and offered them ZAR950.00 on behalf of Jaure and Tsanga, in an attempt to secure the release of the smuggled vehicle.
She was immediately arrested for bribery. The money was forfeited to the state.
Following this case, the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) has cautioned the public against making desperate decisions that could result in criminal records.
“Don’t let a moment of desperation lead to a criminal record! Attempting to subvert justice carries serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, and forfeiture of bribe money,” warned the NPAZ.