A survey conducted by Zim Morning Post on Tuesday revealed that corrupt police officers are demanding bribes from illegal foreign currency dealers to allow them to operate freely at Copa Cabana and other areas in central Harare.
An illegal foreign currency dealer who spoke to the publication disclosed that he has to part with a “tithe/tax” of US$5 each day in police protection fees. Said the dealer:
I make sure every morning I give them US$5 for me to operate my business freely and to avoid my customers being harassed. Without paying, one risks losing their money and going to prison.
The system is well choreographed; they have allocated themselves positions around the CBD and know exactly which team operates around the Copacabana area, Fourth Street or Gulf areas. This is more of a cartel within the police force. Once you pay a service fee (mutero/chegumi), you will be free for the day and no one will arrest you, neither will your customers be harassed.
The corrupt officers are said to be operating at Copa Cabana bus terminus, Market Square and Fourth Street.