Chirundu senior police officer denied bail

Zim Now Writer

The Chirundu senior police officer implicated in human trafficking has been denied bail with the State saying he has a strong case to answer.

Karoi magistrate, Jessie Kufa presided over the matter in which Paul Chaza is being accused of having been involved in the trafficking a group of Ethiopian immigrants.

‘‘Accused number one (Chaza) has been denied bail on condition that he may interfere with State witnesses,” Kufa said.

“The State has a strong case against the accused who used his personal vehicle … for human trafficking.

“Furthermore, the Ethiopians who had been trafficked are part of strong evidence against the accused.”

Kufa added: ‘‘Part of the investigations will be carried out at Chirundu Border Post which is accused (Chaza’s) place of employment and residence.”

He appeared alongside Handiseni Mapiki, 34, of Nyamakate Village 24B, Chief Chundu, Hurungwe, Karoi.

They were remanded in custody till August 17.

They are facing charges of contravening sections of the Trafficking in Persons Actor alternatively contravening sections of the Immigration Act.

Prosecutor Pazvi Munakira told the court that on July 29, 2023, the accused persons acted in connivance and facilitated the illegal entry of ten Ethiopians nationals without travel documents.

They were en route to South Africa.