ZRP Claims Plot To Bribe Officials In Walter Magaya Court Cases

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) says it has uncovered a criminal plot to raise money to bribe police officers, magistrates, and investigators handling the rape and fraud cases involving Prophetic Healing and Deliverance (PHD) Ministries founder Walter Magaya.

In a statement issued on Saturday, 15 November, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the scheme involves Arlbetina Sakonda, who is based in South Africa, working with associates in Zimbabwe and Australia.

Nyathi said the group is attempting to raise over US$200,000 to bribe investigators, prosecutors, magistrates, and judges in an effort to derail the ongoing investigations and court proceedings. The Statement reads:

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns individuals and syndicates who have intensified efforts to interfere and in the process defeat or obstruct the course of justice in the ongoing investigations and court appearance by PHD Ministries leader, Walter Magaya.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is fully aware of coordinated efforts by a team led by Albertina Saikonda based in South Africa, to raise funds to the tune of USD 200 000. 00 or more in Zimbabwe, South Africa and Australia.

“The money will then be used to approach and compromise the Police investigators, prosecutors, magistrates and judges, among others, so as to derail the whole criminal investigations and court proceedings.

‘The Zimbabwe Republic Police, therefore, warns individuals, groups and associates that they will be arrested as the law will definitely take effect without fear or favour.

“The Police is monitoring what is happening with a very keen interest for the effective maintenance of law and order and justice delivery.

“All potential witnesses should report anyone dangling any form of offers or cash or promises to the police for swift action to be taken.

“This is a police statement warning against attempts to obstruct justice in the cases involving Walter Magaya, specifically mentioning an effort to raise USD 200,000 or more to compromise judicial officers.

“The public should utilise cellphone number 0776 830 226, National Complaints number (0242) 703 631 or WhatsApp number, 0712 800 197, to quickly report attempts to interfere with the criminal proceedings.”

Related:

High Court Sets Aside Ruling Allowing Magaya Accusers To Testify In Victim Friendly Court Magistrate Dismisses Magaya’s Application To Have Rape Case Referred To Constitutional Court