Police Officers in Mutare Accused of Stealing Robbery Loot

Three police officers in Mutare, Zimbabwe, are facing charges of criminal abuse of duty for allegedly stealing a portion of recovered robbery money. The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) accuses the officers of conspiring with the robber to keep part of the US$60,000 stolen from a local resident.

According to the NPA, Albert Machona (42), Charles Musiiwa (33), and Tanyaradzwa Mhondiwa (30) responded to a report of a robbery on February 28th, 2024. Upon apprehending the suspect, Nyasha Foster, the officers allegedly planned to keep a portion of the recovered cash for themselves.

Prosecutors claim the officers booked Foster as an informant instead of a suspect and released him. They then reportedly visited the robbery victim, hospitalized at Ireland Private Hospital, and falsely stated only US$26,000 had been recovered, returning that amount while keeping the remaining US$34,000. The victim, however, grew suspicious and alerted authorities, leading to the officers’ arrest.

Foster has been re-arrested on robbery charges and is due in court on Wednesday.

This case raises concerns about potential corruption within Zimbabwean law enforcement. The outcome of the trial will be closely watched, with potential implications for police accountability and public trust.