Zvikomborero Parafini
A POLICE officer on suspension, who allegedly teamed up with a friend in an extortion bid, has been remanded in custody.
Brighton John and his friend, Tendayi Chiraya, appeared before magistrate Isheanesu Matova yesterday and were remanded in custody to Monday, for bail consideration.
John is facing criminal abuse of office charges and Chiraya is facing charges of impersonating a police officer.
Allegations are that John, who is stationed at ZRP Budiriro, teamed up with Chiraya and went to the Robert Mugabe Square where they found a truck unloading goods.
The truck belonged to Emmanuel Ndemera. The two demanded to search the consignment.
John introduced himself as a police officer from Harare Central who was carrying out anti-corruption duties.
Ndemera demanded to see Johnโs police identity card.
Chiraya joined his colleague and introduced himself as a police officer from Harare Central Anti-Corruption Unit.
Ndemera demanded to see his identity card.
Chiraya produced an identity card, which didnโt belong to the police, before changing his tune to claim he was from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
Ndemera sought assistance from police officers from Harare Central Police Station who reacted swiftly and arrested the duo.