By Patience Gondo
The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) is investigating an alleged coordinated plan to raise US$200,000 or more which is reportedly intended to derail investigations and court proceedings involving PHD Ministries leader Walter Magaya.
In a press statement on Saturday ZRP spokesperson,Paul Nyathi said individuals and syndicates have intensified efforts to interfere with the ongoing matter, describing the alleged plot as an attempt to defeat or obstruct the course of justice.
Nyathi said the suspected initiative is being led by Albertina Saikonda, who is reportedly based in South Africa and allegedly mobilising funds across Zimbabwe, South Africa and Australia.
“The money will then be used to approach and compromise the Police investigators, prosecutors, magistrates and judges, among others, so as to derail the whole criminal investigations and court proceedings,” Nyathi said.
Nyathi has warned anyone involved in the sourcing, movement or intended disbursement of the funds will face arrest in line with the law.
The ZRP said it is closely monitoring developments and remains focused on maintaining law and order while ensuring that justice delivery is not influenced by financial inducements.
The public, including witnesses, has been urged to immediately report any person offering cash, favours or promises connected to the case for swift police action.
“All potential witnesses should report anyone dangling any form of offers or cash or promises to the police for swift action to be taken,” said Nyathi.
The warning comes as Magaya is currently facing multiple criminal charges before the courts, including rape related and fraud related allegations and is presently out on bail, pending continuation of legal proceedings.
While Magaya has appeared in court, he has not been convicted and remains presumed innocent under Zimbabwean law until proven guilty.
With an official investigation now underway, ZRP says it will not tolerate any form of judicial interference and has vowed to prosecute both the alleged coordinators and any individuals who voluntarily or knowingly participate in what it describes as a scheme to obstruct justice.