The Lusaka Magistrates Court has reserved January 26 for a ruling in a case in which two co-wives are accused of attempting to corrupt a police officer in order to secure the release of their husband, who is facing allegations of defiling his biological daughter.
The two women are alleged to have corruptly offered K4,808 to a police officer as an inducement for police bond. The allegations are connected to their 43-year-old husband, a herbalist, who was detained after being accused of sexually abusing his 10-year-old daughter.
Magistrate Anna Hollard heard that the two accused were initially arrested together with a third co-wife, who later died while in detention, leaving the remaining two women to face the corruption charge alone.
In closing its case, the prosecution relied on video footage recorded at the police station, which was played in court and presented as key evidence.
During cross-examination, arresting officer Praxida Mulate testified that she did not demand money from the accused and confirmed that no money was seen being exchanged in the video footage. She also acknowledged that the footage did not show her explaining the rights of the accused persons, but stated that the explanation was done off camera.
The video showed one of the accused counting money, while the now-deceased co-wife was heard asking for forgiveness and denying that their husband had sent them with money, stating instead that he had only asked them to stand as sureties.
The defence argued that the footage did not show any act of corruption. However, the prosecution submitted that repeated references to money in relation to police bond were sufficient to support the charge.
After considering the evidence and submissions from both sides, Magistrate Hollard reserved her ruling on whether the accused have a case to answer to January 26. On that date, the court will decide whether the two women will be placed on their defence or acquitted.
