The group bought two vehicles to use in the transport business. The proceeds are then shared among the women. The Nissan March vehicles were shipped from China and were estimated to have cost about $3 500, not including shipping which would have set them back around $10 000.
According to the national ZRPWN chairperson, Commissioner Nonkosi Ncube, money to buy the two vehicles was contributed by the women police officers.
Sources told The Zimbabwean that ZRPWN branches dotted around the country were allowed to venture into business projects but had to adhere to the country’s laws. The projects are meant to augment the salaries of the female police officers in light of poor government salaries.
According to information obtained from the ZRP’s internal magazine, The Outpost, the two vehicles were supposed to be used at the police’s driving school by members wishing to obtain drivers’ licenses.
However, the cars have been spotted picking up passengers from undesignated points in the city centre. They are plying the busy City-Senga route, which is used by students from the Midlands State University.
A female police officer identified as Constable Mboroma, based at Mtapa Police Station, has been seen operating the vehicle with registration ACH4971.
An officer identified as Constable Enerst Muzembi, who was posted at Gweru Central Police Station, has been seen driving the other one.
“The women police officers lied to the Commissioner (Ncube) that the vehicles were for the driving school. The cars do not have taxi operator’s licenses and do not remit to ZIMRA,” said a police source.
“The women have no Money Lenders’ License but they lend us their proceeds while charging exorbitant rates,” explained another officer.
Commuter omnibus operators who spoke to The Zimbabwean expressed their anger.
“When there is low business and few people travelling on the Senga route, our vehicles are impounded and delayed at roadblocks while these vehicles reap huge profits. It’s not fair,” said a commuter omnibus operator at a city rank.
Provincial Police spokesperson, Inspector Leonard Chabata, was said to be out of office when sought for comment.
Post published in: News