South Africa Asked To Extradite Mzembi

The National Prosecuting Authority has asked the South African authorities to assist them in bringing former tourism Minister Walter Mzembi to court after he skipped bail while on remand and settled in the neighbouring country, The Herald reports.

Part of the request from the NPA to South African authorities seen by the publication seeking Mzembi’s extradition reads:

The accused will not be prosecuted for any offence other than theft, criminal abuse of duty as a public officer as defined in Section 174(1) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], based only upon the facts stated in this request. In all the above three cases, Walter Mzembi defaulted court

This request is not being pursued for political reasons or any ulterior purpose. Zimbabwe guarantees that Walter Mzembi will receive a fair trial in terms of the laws of Zimbabwe. The Republic of Zimbabwe also undertakes to render assistance to the Republic of South Africa in any criminal matter

Mzembi who is facing criminal abuse of office, and theft of trust funds involving over $800 000 is also charged for stealing vehicles that had been donated for the UNWTO General assembly worth $130 000. Mzembi is also facing charges of donating four public viewing screens worth US$200 000 belonging to the Ministry of Tourism and Hospitality Industry to Zion Christian Church, United Family International Church and Prophetic Healing Deliverance Ministries thereby contravening the Public Finance Management Act.

Mzembi who is accused together with 2 other people in another case reportedly received donations of about US$815 000 for UNTWO from Mbada Diamonds on behalf of the Government and converted US$517 360 to their own use, according to the publication.

More: The Herald