In a dramatic turn of events at the Rusape Magistrates’ Court, three police officers Shepherd Muzvidza, Justice Chaka, and Trust Mudzitirwa were convicted on serious extortion charges, sending shockwaves through the community.
The officers, aged 36, 37, and 39 respectively, were accused of ab_sing their positions of authority to intimidate a local resident.
The incident unfolded when the officers received a tip-off about the complainant allegedly bypassing a ZESA electricity meter.
Armed with this information, the officers visited the complainant’s home, where they employed aggressive tactics, including threats of arrest, in a bid to extract money.
Feeling cornered and intimidated by the presence of the law enforcement officials, the complainant was coerced into handing over USD 400.
In their defense, the accused officers pleaded not guilty, insisting that their actions were not unlawful. However, the court meticulously reviewed the evidence and ultimately found them guilty of extortion.
Their sentencing was a mix of punitive and reformative measures: each officer received a 30-month prison term, with 9 months suspended for five years, indicating that any future offenses could land them back in jail.
Additionally, 3 months of their sentence were suspended on the condition that they make restitution to the victim, ensuring that the complainant would be compensated for the financial loss.
Crucially, the remaining 18 months of imprisonment were suspended contingent upon each officer completing an extensive 380 hours of community service, signaling a chance for redemption and a reminder of their duty to serve and protect rather than exploit.
SOURCE : NEWSREPORTZIM.COM
