KEY POINTS
- ZRP officer faces obstruction charges in armed robbery case.
- Evidence included guns, passport, and vehicle number plates.
- Suspicious actions at police station led to his arrest.
A Zimbabwe Republic Police officer has been arrested and charged with obstructing the course of justice. This happened after allegedly interfering in an armed robbery investigation in Harare.
Lawrence Masimba, 35, appeared before Harare magistrate Tapiwa Kuhudzai on Tuesday. He was remanded in custody while awaiting a bail decision expected later this week.
Officer linked to evidence interference
According to prosecutors, the case stems from an incident on August 27 when ZRP Braeside officers intercepted a silver Nissan NV350 linked to armed robbery suspects near Queensdale Sports Club. The suspects fled, leaving behind the vehicle and several incriminating items.
Weapons and documents recovered in search
Police recovered a Taurus revolver, a black pistol, number plates, a Nokia cellphone, also a passport belonging to one Crispen Kado. The items were secured at ZRP Braeside for further investigation into the armed robbery case.
Suspicion leads to officer’s arrest
Authorities allege that Masimba later contacted one of the arresting officers to request the release of the exhibits without following due process. Around 3:30 a.m., he reportedly visited the station to facilitate the release, raising suspicion among colleagues and leading to his arrest.
