City of Harare engineer arrested for alleged abuse...

City of Harare engineer arrested for alleged abuse of office, assault

Philemon Jambaya

Albert Madanha, the suspended principal road maintenance engineer for the City of Harare, has been arrested on charges of abuse of office and assault.

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission apprehended Madanha at his residence on Sunday.

According to the State’s case, Madanha resisted arrest violently, kicking and punching the arresting officers. Following a struggle, he was handcuffed and taken into custody.

The crux of the abuse of office charge revolves around Madanha’s alleged dealings with Southern Plan Energy in September 2022. The company sought his assistance in acquiring land for an LPG Cylinder Filling Station.

Madanha is accused of bypassing proper Council procedures. He allegedly advised Southern Plan Energy to identify suitable land, which the company did at the corner of Wilson Road and Piers Road in Borrowdale, a designated road servitude.

The State alleges that without Council approval, Madanha entered into an agreement with Southern Plan Energy, permitting them to proceed with construction and designs on the public land. This agreement reportedly included a forged design permit and bypassed the Urban Councils Act.

Furthermore, Madanha is accused of issuing a fraudulent land development levy for US$2 084 to Southern Plan Energy in June 2023. The money was allegedly paid directly to Madanha and not remitted to the City of Harare.

Madanha appeared before magistrate Taurai Manuwere and was remanded in custody. Bail considerations are expected to take place today. Anesu Chirenje represented the State during the court hearing.