ZRP Officer Jailed After Demanding US$15 Bribe From Motorist

ZRP Traffic Cop In Hot Water Over US$15 Bribe, Sentenced To 16 Months In Jail

A Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer who demanded a US$15 (approximately R273) bribe from a motorist has been sentenced to 16 months in prison by the Zvishavane Magistrates’ Court.

Abel Musimeki, 35, who was based at Milton Park Police Station in Harare, was convicted of criminal abuse of duty after extorting a bribe during a fake roadside stop in September 2024.

Officer claimed to be on official duty

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the incident occurred on 19 September 2024 at Ruswa Complex in Mandava.

Musimeki allegedly stopped a Toyota Funcargo, accusing the driver of having improper vehicle registration. He then instructed the driver to locate the vehicle’s owner, Edwin Rangarirai Mahosi, who works as an auto-electrician.

When Mahosi arrived, the officer claimed he was part of an official vehicle licensing operation and threatened to impound the car.

“Out of fear, the victim handed over US$15 (R273),” said the NPAZ in a bulletin dated 28 July 2025.

“After consulting a friend, the victim became suspicious and filed a report. The offender was tracked down and arrested.”

Court hands down prison sentence

Musimeki was slapped with a 16-month sentence. However, part of it was suspended:

“Four months were suspended for five years on condition of good behaviour, and a further two months were suspended on condition that he restitutes the complainant the amount of US$15,” said the NPAZ.

This left the disgraced officer with an effective 10-month prison term.

The NPAZ stressed that such conduct would not be tolerated.