Israeli pilot to file theft charges against Zim cops

THE Israeli pilot who was found in possession of US$2 million worth of diamonds at the Harare International Airport wants the policeman who handled his case to be arrested on allegations of stealing his diamonds.

Defence lawyer Mr Jonathan Samukange of Venturas and Samukange told the court yesterday that his client will file criminal charges against a team of police officers that were investigating the case.

Mr Samukange, who continued cross-examining investigating officer Detective Sergeant Aaron Chipadza, asked the witness whether he was aware that his client Shmuel Kainan Klein's 2 140 carats were missing.

Det Sgt Chipadza said he was not aware, adding that Klein did not have documents showing the diamonds' caratage.

Said Mr Samukange: "That is the reason why you stole them (diamonds) because he did not have documents showing the caratage. The reason why you did not measure the caratage with him is because you planned to steal them."

The detective asked Mr Samukange why his client did not report the matter to which he responded:

"You could be arrested. Do you think we are not going to do that? You are smiling, you won't be smiling when we make that report. We can't have police officers stealing diamonds in the process of investigations, either you or your colleagues swapped the diamonds that is why we have the deficit."

The detective maintained that the diamonds were not stolen or switched. Earlier Mr Samukange said all the six witnesses were giving contradicting evidence. He sought an explanation from Det Sgt Chipadza, but he said he could not speak for the other witnesses.

"From witnesses one to six you do not corroborate each other. I am going to ask the court to acquit my client on the basis of the contradictions. I don't want you to go outside and ask why he was acquitted," he said.

Prosecutor Mr Michael Reza closed the State case and Mr Samukange notified the court that he will apply for discharge. Magistrate Mr Clever Tsikwa asked both counsels to make written submissions and he will make a ruling on Friday next week.

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