A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer, Constable Last Taguta, has been accused of corruption and is currently facing charges for allegedly forging a receipt to pocket $25 from a fine. Taguta, stationed at Chikanga Police Station in Mutare, is set to appear in court on April 22 after being granted $100 bail.
The incident occurred on March 4 when Taguta and his colleague, Constable Kudzanai Chabuda, arrested Oswald Makoni for operating an illegal transport service. Taguta allegedly told Makoni to pay a $30 fine, which he later impounded Makoni’s vehicle for. When Makoni paid the fine, Taguta issued a receipt for the full amount but only recorded $5 in the official records, pocketing the remaining $25.
The state is being represented by prosecutor Joyce Tinarwo, and the case is currently under investigation. This incident highlights concerns about corruption within the ZRP and the need for accountability.
In Zimbabwe, traffic fines are categorized into three levels:
– Level 1: $5 (typically issued as a caution)
– Level 2: $15
– Level 3: $30 (maximum fine that can be imposed by a police officer)
The ZRP has implemented measures to prevent corruption, including a national WhatsApp hotline and a complaints hotline for reporting unscrupulous officers.
The case against Constable Taguta serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and accountability within law enforcement agencies. The outcome of this case will be closely watched, and it may have implications for how corruption is addressed within the ZRP
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