Do I need to keep petty cash on me for bribes in Zimbabwe?

3/8/2013 4:02:08 AM

I was in Zimbabwe a long time ago at a better time…
While in South Africa, a police officer tried to extract money
from us by a “fine” for a non-existing offense, but my brother
(who is in a wheelchair) was able to convince him to let us go.

So, bribery can unfortunately happen at any time, but on the other
side this was the only attempt during our long journey.
To all people who are talking about “legal”: This is not a western
democracy.
The police / officials are paid so extremely poorly (and sometimes
sporadically) they often use (sometimes reluctantly) their authority
to get money. They also know that they are pushing their luck, so
you can get in very deep trouble as tourist if you try to accuse
them of bribery or tell them that you will press charges.

Some tips:

  • Use the smallest paper cash possible in Rand and transport only the
    necessary amount of money with you. Part it in several parcels: One
    in your jacket, one in the trousers etc.
  • If possible, have someone who is able to send you money
    over Western Union if the needs arises: Nr. 12 Samora Machel Avenue
  • NEVER try to bribe without explicit demand: It is highly offensive.
    You will know that someone wants money from you. Only bribe if
    the person can really harm you (police etc.)
  • NEVER EVER bribe before witnesses. If the official has other people
    around him, talk to him that you want to talk with him alone (to which
    he/she will gladly agree). If someone tries to demand money with
    witnesses, all alarm-bells should go off: This is a trap.
  • NEVER bribe bluntly. It should always look harmless or official.
    The best method is to “forget” cash in your passport and give the
    official the passport for “authentification”. Or you ask if you must
    pay a “fine” or if there is a “tax” on using this or that.
3/4/2013 7:46:32 PM

There is no need to hand over money to any officials to bribe them. There are now anti-corruption units all over the country that will arrest on sight for such activity. Officials now fear taking bribes and fear foreigners in particular because they know they can go a step further to expose them. Personally i do not support corruption and it I have seen how it can destroy a country. Help fight against it by not being part of it.

Credit:stackoverflow.com‘

About me

Hello,My name is Aparna Patel,I’m a Travel Blogger and Photographer who travel the world full-time with my hubby.I like to share my travel experience.

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