Two police officers from Harare have been suspended from duty following allegations of accepting bribes from motorists, after a video of the incident went viral on social media.
Sergeant James Chifamba (46) and Constable Trymore Mukunza (36) were captured on camera pocketing bribes from kombi drivers and other public transport operators along Harare-Mutare Road, near the Mabvuku turn-off. The officers are currently facing charges of criminal abuse of office, and disciplinary proceedings are underway.
The viral footage prompted immediate action from the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP), with the two officers arrested and remanded in custody. The investigation has since expanded, with the police working to identify the motorists and commuter omnibus crews who allegedly offered bribes to the officers.
Last week, two suspects—kombi driver Tinashe Madzima (31) and conductor Ishmael Gonyora—were arrested in connection with the bribery incident. Police also impounded two Toyota Hiace commuter omnibuses, which were allegedly involved in the exchange of bribes.
National police spokesperson, Commissioner Paul Nyathi, confirmed the ongoing investigations and provided further details about the case. “Reference is made to the Zimbabwe Republic Police press statement on the arrest of two police officers, Sergeant James Chifamba and Constable Trymore Mukunza, following a viral video on social media in which the two police officers are seen taking bribes from pirate kombis, taxis, and registered public service vehicles along Harare-Mutare Road, Mabvuku turn-off,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
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According to police reports, Madzima was seen in the viral video driving a Toyota Hiace kombi, registration number ABZ 1395, offering a bribe to one of the officers. Similarly, Gonyora, the conductor of another kombi (registration number ABZ 8264), was also filmed handing over a bribe. Both men were arrested on November 6, 2024, at George Shopping Centre, Ruwa, and are facing charges related to corruption.
As investigations continue, police are actively seeking additional suspects implicated in the bribery scheme. The ZRP has urged members of the public to avoid offering bribes to officers, emphasizing that those caught engaging in such practices will face swift legal consequences.
“The Police are also pursuing other suspects who are implicated in this incident. The Zimbabwe Republic Police urges motorists to refrain from offering bribes to police officers, as swift action will be taken against them for justice to prevail,” Commissioner Nyathi said.
Members of the public are encouraged to report incidents of bribery or corruption through the ZRP’s National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, via WhatsApp at 0712 800 197, or at any nearest police station.
This case highlights the ongoing battle against corruption within law enforcement, as the ZRP strives to maintain transparency and uphold public trust.
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