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Message: [QUOTE="Nehanda, post: 26716, member: 2262"] The Harare Magistrate's Court recently heard the case of Patricia Mwaruta, the 51-year-old deputy head at Zengeza 4 High School. She faces legal troubles for allegedly requesting an illegal payment of US$400 from a contractor handling the school borehole project. Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa released her on US$150 bail until her next appearance, scheduled for March 13. Court records presented by prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti reveal that Zengeza 4 High School's Development Committee had sought estimates for installing a complete water system. The planned upgrade included a borehole, solar power equipment, a 5000-liter water tank, plus a 4-meter support stand. The contractor submitted his business proposal on January 9 through the proper channels. Approximately fourteen days later, Mwaruta reached out to arrange a meeting with the contractor. During their discussion, she reportedly confirmed his estimate had received official approval. The total project carried a US$4,600 price tag under his management. The school transferred an initial US$1,500 payment on February 4, enabling drilling operations to begin immediately. After successfully drilling down 60 meters, the contractor requested the outstanding US$1,270 balance to complete all remaining work. At this critical point, Mwaruta allegedly pressured him for a US$400 personal payment, suggesting she could cancel his agreement should he refuse. The contractor then contacted the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission to report the improper demand. Commission officials subsequently arrested Mwaruta when she accepted a reduced bribe of US$200 from the contractor. [/QUOTE]

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