A report by Chinese media organisation Xinhua has alleged that traffic officers of the Zimbabwe Republic Police are using their own personal funds to pay for spikes. The officers are alleged to be paying $5 each for the spikes, which they use to stop motorists.
In an article titled “Zimbabwe’s traffic police showered with cynicism from motorists,” Xinhua says:
A policeman revealed to Xinhua Thursday that each officer even had the spikes done for 5 U.S. dollars with personal money.
Motorist Israel Mahachi said the zeal with which most traffic police officers had acquired the spikes had left many people suspicious.
“Why does a police officer use his or her own money to pay for something which should be provided by the employer, especially during these difficult times? Is it because it will be easy to recoup the expenses at roadblocks where corruption may take place?” Mahachi said.
…Sometimes they are willing to negotiate for downward reviews of the fines they impose on offending motorists, only this time the money does not find its way into state coffers.