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Court Reporter
A policeman stationed in Zengeza, Chitungwiza, appeared in court last week charged with criminal abuse of office after he allegedly pocketed US$20 he received as a fine. Constable Lovemore Manyathi (21) of Unit D is alleged to have arrested Tichaona Mumba during a raid of Chikwanha Shopping Centre on January 21. Mumba is employed as a block man at Great Arm butchery and was arrested during a police operation code-named Chengetedzai Hutano, directed at criminal infringements on public health regulations.

Mumba was taken to Zengeza Police Station and when he was asked to pay a fine he reportedly phoned a workmate, Evans Murena, who brought US$20.

Manyathi demanded the money from Mumba and pocketed it, the court heard.
He allegedly did not give Mumba a receipt as proof of payment of the fine before releasing him.

The matter was reported to the police leading to Manyathi’s arrest.
Manyathi denied the charges when he appeared before Chitungwiza magistrate Mr Kudakwashe Jarabini. Ms Ntombilayise Nleya prosecuted.