5 arrested over US$15k extortion

Michael Mashiri

Five policemen, who allegedly extorted US$15 000 for them to drop a sexual harassment charge he was accused of, have appeared in court.

Lawson Muchongwe, 34, of Norton, Perseverance Chisango, 31, of Mabvuku, Weston Muzorewa, 36, of Seke, Chitungwiza, Prosper Chimbumu, 33 and Fedrick Moyo, 34, of Warren Park D, appeared before magistrate Donald Ndirowei at the Harare Magistrates’ Courts accused of abuse of office.

They were ordered to deposit US$50 and will appear in court on November 3.

The State, through prosecutor Tendai Tapi, alleges that the five accused were informed that the complainant had some sexual harassment allegations which they were investigating.

They then requested to see him over the alleged investigations.

The complainant sought the help of his lawyer to accompany him to meet the five after they had agreed to meet at Newlands Shopping Centre.

On October 11, 2023 the complainant, together with his lawyer, allegedly went to Newlands Shopping Centre where they met up with the accused persons.

After having deliberations over the alleged sexual harassment issues, the five demanded US$15 000 so that they would drop the charges which the complainant was facing.

On October 12, 2023 the complainant reported the case at Harare Central Police station.

It was revealed that there was no such case of sexual harassment being investigated at ZRP Harare Central or any other police station where the complainant is the accused.

The five were allegedly arrested after they had gone to collect the money from the complainant.