Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Arrested in US$52,000 Extortion Case

Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) over allegations that he and two other councillors demanded US$52,000 from a businessman in connection with a hotel development lease. Ward 28 councillor Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu and former Ward 22 councillor Rodney Jele were also arrested and are facing allegations linked to the same case.

ZACC confirmed the arrests on Sunday, saying investigations were continuing into the alleged extortion. The case relates to a 50-year lease agreement reportedly entered into in March 2023 for the development of a hotel in Bulawayo.

Businessman allegedly asked for US$52,000

According to ZACC, the alleged extortion took place in August 2026. Investigators allege that the three accused approached the businessman over the lease and claimed that another businessman was prepared to pay US$52,000 to have the agreement cancelled.

The complainant was allegedly told to match the US$52,000 offer if he wanted to retain the lease, according to the anti-corruption commission. The businessman subsequently reported the matter to ZACC, prompting investigators to launch an operation targeting the suspects.

ZACC trap operation

ZACC investigators organised a trap following the complaint, resulting in the arrest of the three accused. The commission has not disclosed whether the alleged US$52,000 was recovered during the operation or whether money changed hands. The allegations centre on claims that the accused used their positions and influence in relation to the hotel development lease to obtain money from the businessman.

The case comes amid continued scrutiny of corruption in local authorities in Zimbabwe, particularly allegations involving public officials and municipal property or development deals.

ZACC has been pursuing cases involving suspected bribery, abuse of office and other corruption-related offences as part of efforts to strengthen accountability in public institutions.

Court appearance

Edwin Ndlovu, Ntandoyenkosi Ndlovu and Rodney Jele are expected to appear before the Tredgold Magistrates Court in Bulawayo on Monday, August 24, where they will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations. The accused have not been convicted of any offence and remain presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.

The latest arrests add to previous corruption allegations involving Bulawayo municipal officials. ZACC's investigation is expected to establish whether the alleged demand was made, the circumstances surrounding the hotel lease, and whether any other individuals were involved. The commission has not yet indicated whether further arrests are likely as investigations continue.

Bulawayo Deputy Mayor Edwin Ndlovu