Former cop and socialite Chidawa in trouble over ‘illegal’ disciplinary camp

By Mary Taruvinga

FORMER police officer, Tafadzwa Chidawa is once again in trouble with the law for allegedly operating a disciplinary camp without authority.

His camp Matrix Disciplinary Training Camp has been making waves on social media.

Tafadzwa Chidawa

The 36-year-old socialite and “private investigator” appeared before a Harare magistrate jointly charged with one Clara Manyepera (38).

The two are also being charged with impersonation of child protection officers.

Chidawa and Manyepera appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court for their initial remand, and investigations are ongoing. They were granted US$300 each and will be back in court on April 20 for routine remand.

The State alleges that the two established and operated the camp without the necessary registration and licensing required by the Private Voluntary Organisations Act.

“The camp, located at Number 2165 Tokwane Close, reportedly aimed to ‘rehabilitate’ children with delinquency issues, and authorities claim that the two admitted youths into the camp from December 6, 2023, onwards.

“Furthermore, the State alleges that, during the camp’s operation, the duo impersonated child protection officers.

“This involved offering services legally reserved for qualified individuals, including measures for observing and correcting behaviours contributing to delinquency, and providing counselling, supervision, and control,” said the National Prosecuting Authority.

Prosecutors say the two acted unlawfully, thereby breaking the Children’s Act.

The State is in possession of video footage of the pair conducting training sessions.