Martin Muleya
Two Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officers, Sergeant Mduduzi Makina (39) and Constable Elliot Gava (42), appeared before the Mutare provincial magistrate Tendai Mahwe today, after being arrested for allegedly assaulting Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) officers.
Makina and Gava who were represented by Innocent Mandikate of Mugadza Chinzamba Law Firm were not asked to plead. They were remanded out of custody on $100 bail.
The duo, stationed at Sakubva Police Station, were arrested by ZACC on allegations of assault or resisting a peace officer. According to the State, Makina and Gava obstructed justice by manhandling and injuring ZACC investigators who had arrested a police officer on allegations of bribery.
It was the State’s case led by Sandra Mambo that on December 11, 2024, when a ZACC Investigations team was investigating reports of bribery at a roadblock near Mutare Teachers College.
During the operation, ZACC investigators seized the roadblock declaration book as evidence. However, Makina and Gava allegedly intervened, manhandled the ZACC officers, and seized the roadblock declaration book.
Their actions were seen as a blatant attempt to obstruct justice and undermine the authority of ZACC. The case has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for swift action against the errant officers.
They will be back in the dock on 10th January 2025
