Council workers in US$37 000 pine tree scam

GWERU mayor Josiah Makombe on Monday revealed that some council employees were being investigated for illegally cutting down pine trees and selling them to the public, thus prejudicing the council of US$37 000 in potential revenue.

Speaking at a media briefing on the state of the city, Makombe said the council audit team was seized with the matter in a bid to recover the money.

“Currently, we are dealing with a case of illegal cutting down of pine trees which are valued at approximately US$37 000,” Makombe said.

“Our internal audit team is working to recover that money. Henceforth, anyone caught on the wrong side will be dealt with by the arm of the law.”

Investigations by Southern Eye revealed that some employees were selling pinewood to people without remitting the proceeds to the local authority.

The wood, which is less expensive compared to other (woods), is mostly used for making furniture, floors and windows.

It is in demand for its light weight, resistance to shrinking and swelling as well as good elasticity.

Makombe also said council would investigate all reports of land abuse by officials.

He said besides the auditors, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission was also keeping an eye on unscrupulous activities at the local authority.

“There are allegations of land scams,” he said.

“The forensic land audit report has seen some elements being suspended and they are still being investigated.”

He added: “We have also had cases of management who unlawfully allocated each other land, this issue is being investigated internally and externally.”

He said the local authority would deal with corruption “without fear or favour”.