Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has strongly refuted claims that private investigator Tafadzwa “Detective Kedha” Chidawa is working in collaboration with the International Criminal Police Organisation (Interpol), warning the public against falling prey to misinformation and impersonation.

Chidawa, a former police officer now operating under Matrix Private Investigations and Security, has reportedly claimed to have connections with Interpol and to be involved in cross-border criminal investigations, particularly related to stolen vehicles allegedly traced to Malawi.

However, ZRP national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi has categorically denied these assertions, clarifying that neither Interpol nor the ZRP engages private individuals or entities in official investigations.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns the public against being duped or misled by individuals or groups who purport to be conducting extra-territorial investigations on criminal acts and work within the auspices of Interpol,” said Nyathi in a statement. “Interpol works strictly within police structures and not with private investigators or organisations.”

He further clarified that, in the cited case of suspected vehicle thefts, communication between ZRP and Malawian authorities is being handled formally and entirely within official police channels, without any involvement from external private parties.

Nyathi urged members of the public or organisations wishing to provide information about crimes to approach the ZRP through proper and recognised procedures. He also warned that interference in police investigations by unauthorised individuals could amount to obstructing the course of justice.

Meanwhile, Chidawa and his associate Clara Manyepera recently appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court on charges of operating an unregistered private voluntary organisation and impersonating child protection officers. The duo allegedly established and ran an entity named “Matrix” without legal registration.

The case has raised broader concerns about the unchecked activities of private security and investigation outfits that claim legitimacy through unverifiable affiliations with law enforcement agencies.

As investigations continue, authorities have reiterated their call for vigilance, urging citizens to verify the credentials and legal standing of any entity claiming to act in the name of the police or international law enforcement bodie