Musa Makina
TENDY Three Investments (TTI) has suspended one of its employees, Muziwakhe Tshabangu, who stands accused of soliciting bribes at a parking lot outside a popular Bulawayo restaurant and bar.
The suspension follows a dramatic incident where Tshabangu was reportedly subjected to a “citizens’ arrest” by workers at the establishment before being taken to TTI offices, where a formal complaint was lodged.
The incident occurred on Thursday afternoon when Tshabangu allegedly demanded a US$10 bribe from a patron, threatening to have the patron’s car towed if the money was not paid. The restaurant’s proprietor, Jabulani Nyoni, intervened after another patron also claimed to have been targeted earlier by the same employee.
“He demanded a bribe from one of our patrons for improper parking and threatened to tow the car if he wasn’t paid,” said Mr. Nyoni. “Another patron then came forward, saying he had also been asked for US$10 earlier. Realizing this was a pattern, we decided to escort him to the TTI offices and report the matter.”
TTI, which oversees Bulawayo’s traffic management, has confirmed Tshabangu’s immediate suspension pending an internal investigation.
The company’s managing director, Bongani Nyathi, reiterated TTI’s strict stance against corruption. “We maintain a zero-tolerance policy towards corruption. Any employee found engaging in such practices will face disciplinary action. Investigations are currently underway to establish the facts,” he said.
Nyathi urged motorists to report any instances of bribery and to ensure they receive receipts for all transactions conducted with TTI staff.
“We encourage the public to come forward and lay formal complaints against any employee soliciting bribes. Such behavior is against our company policy and will not be tolerated.”
TTI, which employs hundreds of workers in traffic enforcement, is committed to upholding ethical standards and maintaining public trust.
