Story by Fungai Jachi, Courts Reporter
TWO rogue police officers, who were allegedly caught on camera taking bribes from motorists at a roadblock in Mabvuku, Harare are set to appear in court this Friday for bail ruling.
A Harare magistrate is set to determine whether Sergeant James Chifamba and Constable Trymore Mukunza can be released on bail pending trial after both the defense and State have filed their submissions.
The State is opposing the release of the duo on bail arguing that the police officers are facing a serious offense as they broke the law despite being law enforcement agents.
The defence argued that bail is a constitutional right, hence the accused deserved to be freed pending trial.
The duo was allegedly caught on camera accepting bribes from drivers of kombis, taxis and public service vehicles in a video that went viral, leading to their arrest.
They appeared before regional magistrate, Marewanazvo Gofa charged with criminal abuse of duty.
The State alleged that the two were deployed on duty to conduct traffic enforcement duties.
They had specific duties to stop motor vehicles and check for any violations.
It is the state’s case that contrary to their assigned duties, the two would not check for violations of road traffic rules but proceeded to wait for the drivers of vehicles to approach them, have a brief conversation and receive considerations.
