The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has apprehended Takunda Muzenda, a public prosecutor at Rusape Magistrate Court, over allegations that he solicited a US$150 bribe from a suspect in exchange for securing her acquittal on drug charges.
The alleged incident occurred last Wednesday when Muzenda reportedly approached Rumbidzai Sananga, who had just appeared before Magistrate Barbra Mateko on charges of unlawfully cultivating mbanje. Muzenda is accused of requesting the bribe in return for ensuring a favorable verdict.
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Sananga reported the solicitation to ZACC, leading to a sting operation. On Thursday, ZACC officials accompanied her to Muzenda’s office, posing as if they were delivering the bribe. However, Muzenda suddenly declined the money after receiving a phone call warning him about the trap.
Investigations revealed that fellow prosecutor Marlon Makamba had tipped Muzenda off about the operation. Makamba, in turn, had been alerted by Gladman Gabaza, a court clerk in Rusape, who had learned of the planned sting from Sananga’s sister, Chenai Kundidzo.
Muzenda is set to appear in court soon to face charges related to corruption and bribery solicitation.
