Resident Magistrate Anna Holland found the two women guilty of offering more than K4,000 to an officer in a bid to secure the release of their husband.
The women’s husband, a 43-year-old herbalist, was being detained at Kabwata Police Station on allegations of incest involving his 10-year-old daughter.
In delivering judgment, Magistrate Holland ruled that the prosecution had proved its case beyond reasonable doubt.
She stated that the court had taken into account that one of the accused had been in custody for a considerable period and that both women were first-time offenders.
Magistrate Holland further observed that offering money to public officers, regardless of emotional circumstances, undermines public interest and erodes confidence in public service.
In mitigation, the two women, through their lawyers, expressed remorse for their actions.
During trial, the co-wives had denied the charge of corrupt practices, with one arguing that the money was intended to buy food for their husband and not as a bribe.
