By Meditation Mposi
A police constabulary based at Muchakata police camp in Masvingo Rural narrowly avoided jail after being convicted of fraud for charging a village head for livestock clearance.
The accused, Johnson Manhondo (59), appeared before Masvingo Magistrate Lynette Mudzingo and pleaded guilty to the charges.
Manhondo escaped a custodial sentence, as his initial four-month sentence was conditionally suspended. Three months were suspended on condition of good behavior and that he does not commit a similar offense within the next five years. The remaining month was suspended on condition that he repays the complainant before December 1.
The state alleged that in November 2023, Masunda Muchechete, of Mukosi Resettlement under Chief Shumba in Masvingo, gave a bull to Chief Nyajena as a gesture of gratitude for appointing him as headman.
Due to a church service in Chivi, Muchechete was unable to immediately clear the animal with the Police and Veterinary office.
Upon his return, Manhondo from the same village, approached him, demanding $100 for the clearance delay. Muchechete complied and paid the amount.
In February, Muchechete met with a local veterinary officer, inquiring about a receipt for his payment, only to discover that no such fee was required by the veterinary department for cattle clearance. He subsequently reported the incident to ZRP Muchakata, leading to Manhondo’s arrest.
Precious Takuva prosecuted.
