By Takudziridzwa Nyama
A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer has been arrested and charged with criminal abuse of duty or alternatively extortion following a bribery scandal at ZRP Zengeza.
According to reports, the incident occurred on June 7, 2025, when the officer allegedly demanded a bribe of US$200 from a suspect arrested for allegedly possessing a stolen Samsung Galaxy A04E. Instead of providing a professional explanation, the officer reportedly demanded the money in exchange for the suspect’s release and for the case to be “shelved.”
The suspect’s friend, who sought clarification on the case, reported the officer’s bribery demand to the CID Police Anti-Corruption Unit (PACU). This led to a coordinated sting operation.
On June 9, 2025, detectives from PACU, accompanied by the friend, visited Zengeza Police Station. The officer later contacted the suspect’s friend and directed him to offices G13 and G16 for the transaction.
Under surveillance, the friend handed over US$40 in marked trap money, consisting of one US$20 note (Serial: PH50115833C) and two US$10 notes (Serials: PK45658296B and PB36416637E).
Unaware that he was being watched, the officer received the cash inside office G16. Moments later, he was caught red-handed with the marked money in his left hand and was immediately arrested.
The officer appeared at Chitungwiza Magistrates’ Court and was granted bail of US$100. He was ordered to reside at his current address until the case is finalized, report every Friday at the CID PACU between 6 AM and 6 PM, and was strictly warned not to interfere with witnesses or the investigation.