Harare, Zimbabwe — A senior Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) officer, Isaac Chigidora (28), has been charged with embezzling US$623,462.79 from the ZRP Consolidated Fund. Chigidora, who was responsible for administration and human resources in the fund, allegedly stole the money in cash from the safe deposit box.

He was arrested while serving as the officer in charge of operations in Mutoko and appeared in court, where he was remanded in custody. A ruling on his bail application is expected tomorrow. The ZRP is being represented in the case by Chief Inspector Lameck Munyaka, who is acting as the secretary of the ZRP Board of Trustees.

According to the State, between September 2023 and July 2024, Chigidora falsely reported transferring cash to Joyce Mine, a facility that ceased operations in 2021. Instead, he allegedly pocketed the funds, and to date, none of the missing money has been recovered.

The case has sent shockwaves through the police force and the public, raising concerns about financial oversight within the ZRP. Authorities are expected to tighten controls on the management of police funds in response to the scandal.

Chigidora remains in custody as the court deliberates on his bail application. More updates to follow as the case unfolds.