Senior officers and commanders of the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) have been ordered to stop demanding unsanctioned salary deductions from members of the force. The ZRP will also carry out an audit to establish the prejudice caused by these illegal salary deductions. Some police officers are reported to have lost at least $30 per month after the various deductions. Even worse, the payments were expected in cash. Some of the unsanctioned deductions include:
- US$1 per month for the funeral fund
- US$5 per month for the recreational fund
- US$10 per month for the for Kuyedza Club which was overseen by Isabel Chihuri, wife of former police commissioner-general Augustine Chihuri.
An internal memo quoted by the weekly publication, The Zimbabwe Independent reads:
It has been observed by this headquarters that some commanders continue to effect some unsanctioned deductions from members, which are not provided for by the Police Standing Orders. For ease of reference, deductions sanctioned include ZRP Association, The Outpost etc. Unsanctioned deductions include funeral funds, developmental funds, fuel funds etc.
Kuyedza Club membership is voluntary in terms of paragraph 29.5 and 29.6 of the Police Standing Orders. It should be borne in mind that the meagre salaries of members cannot be used to sustain government obligations. Director finance will soon be directed to carry out audits at all provincial district and station levels. Disciplinary action will be taken against errant commanders. All sanctioned deductions should be effected through SSB after the necessary procedures are followed.
The ZRP is undergoing a massive restructuring process after at least 30 commissioners were fired and given 48 hours to leave the police force.
More: The Independent