Two police officers who set up an unauthorized roadblock along Samora Machel Avenue in Harare and stole US$10,000 from a Chinese national appeared in court on Friday.
Jefter Nkomazanah (36) from Kanyemba Police Station and Crynot Fablano (40) from Dzivarasekwa Police Station, who is currently suspended, were charged with criminal abuse of duty. They were remanded in custody until February 25 for a bail hearing before Harare magistrate Mrs. Marehwanazvo.
According to the State, the incident occurred on February 14 when the victim was driving along Samora Machel Avenue. Nkomazanah, dressed in police uniform, approached the vehicle, prompting the driver to lock his doors. However, Nkomazanah managed to unlock the car through a partially open window and got inside.
Accusing the driver of using his phone while driving, Nkomazanah instructed him to proceed to Harare Central Police Station. Instead, he directed him to park near Karigamombe Centre, where he called Fablano, whom he introduced as his superior.
The two officers then intimidated the victim while Fablano searched his satchel, taking US$10,000. The complainant reluctantly handed over an additional US$25 to Nkomazanah, but Fablano had already disappeared with the bulk of the money.
Realizing he had been robbed, the victim reported the incident to the police and was referred to the Police Anti-Corruption Unit.
On February 18, detectives conducting surveillance spotted Nkomazanah and Fablano in uniform, targeting motorists along Samora Machel Avenue. When approached, the suspects attempted to flee but were captured after a brief chase.
The complainant lost a total of US$10,025, none of which has been recovered.
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