Staff Reporter
Two Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers have been arrested following a viral social media video in which they were allegedly recorded receiving bribes from pirate taxis and registered public service vehicles at the Mabvuku turn-off, along the Harare-Mutare Road.
Sergeant James Chifamba and Constable Trymore Gunzva have been arrested after a video footage emerged showing them allegedly accepting bribes while on duty. The viral footage reportedly captured the officers receiving cash from several drivers of pirate taxis, registered public service vehicles, and kombis along the Harare-Mutare Road at the Mabvuku Turn-off.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the arrest in a statement released yesterday, underscoring the Zimbabwe Republic Police’s commitment to tackling corruption within its ranks. “Reference is made to the viral social media post which clearly showed two police officers on a Zimbabwe Republic Police motorbike taking bribes,” he stated, adding that the officers had allegedly solicited bribes from over ten motorists during their patrol.
Commissioner Paul Nyathi has expressed a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption among police officers. Nyathi referred to the arrested officers as “bad apples” who do not reflect the integrity expected of the force. “The Zimbabwe Republic Police informs the public that Sergeant Chifamba and Constable Gunzva have been arrested and are now in detention. They are facing both disciplinary and criminal charges,” he said.
The incident has triggered outrage among citizens who rely on police for protection and law enforcement. Many view the actions of the two officers as a betrayal of public trust, further eroding confidence in the police force. The ZRP has faced scrutiny in recent years over allegations of corruption, and this latest case is likely to intensify calls for reform within the organisation.
As the investigation unfolds, the ZRP has assured the public that it will take necessary measures to ensure accountability. “The Commissioner-General of Police does not condone corruption by any police officer and will ensure that the law takes its course without fear or favour,” Nyathi declared.
The ZRP’s swift action against Sergeant Chifamba and Constable Gunzva may be a crucial step toward restoring faith in law enforcement, but many citizens remain cautious, awaiting tangible changes in the culture of policing in the country.
