Crimes and Courts Correspondent
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) is under fire for delaying the trial of Wayne Williams and Regis Maburutse, accused of misappropriating 35 motorbikes valued at $87,500. The motorbikes, seized as exhibits by the Zimbabwe Republic Police, vanished from police custody, prompting Tony Renato Sarpo to file a complaint with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC).
Sarpo initially reported the issue to the police, citing the Criminal Procedure and Evidence Act, which stipulates that exhibits should be returned to the owner within 21 working days. However, the police allegedly showed no interest, leading Sarpo to approach ZACC.
During their initial court appearance, Harare Magistrate Dennis Mangosi granted Williams and Maburutse bail, pending trial. Despite ZACC completing its investigations and submitting the docket to court, NPA’s District Public Prosecutor, Tendai Shonhayi, has yet to set a trial date, sparking concerns about corruption within the police and NPA.
Prosecutor General Judge Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo acknowledged receiving Sarpo’s complaint, saying, “I have forwarded the complaint to the relevant department as I am busy these days. I will look into the matter next week”.
The case highlights the issue of missing exhibits and delayed trials, eroding public confidence in the police and courts. The motorbikes were seized in 2017 and kept at a Yagden warehouse in Chiredzi, instead of a police station, after Solomon Mateta signed an indemnity form.
Key Points:
- 35 motorbikes valued at $87,500 missing from police custody
- ZACC arrests Wayne Williams and Regis Maburutse
- NPA delays trial, sparking corruption concerns
- Prosecutor General acknowledges complaint, promises investigation
- Case highlights issues with missing exhibits and delayed trials
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