Kedha defends cross-border probe, says Interpol works with private investigators

HARARE – Controversial private investigator Detective Kedha has dismissed claims by the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) that he is not authorised to work with Interpol, insisting that the international law enforcement agency is free to collaborate with private actors in its operations.

Detective Kedha, whose real name is Tafadzwa Chidawa, has come under increasing scrutiny after he claimed to have recovered a stolen Toyota Land Cruiser in Malawi with the knowledge and approval of both Interpol and Malawian police authorities.

However, in a statement over the weekend, the ZRP cast doubt on his involvement with Interpol, suggesting that only official police agencies are authorised to work with the international body.

In response, Matrix Private Investigations and Security, the company affiliated with Kedha, rejected the ZRP’s assertions, stating that Interpol’s scope of collaboration is not limited to state actors.

“Interpol is an international organization comprising multiple member countries, and in all progressive jurisdictions, the role and legitimacy of private investigators is clearly recognized,” the company said in a statement.

“With specific reference to the recent recovery of a stolen Land Cruiser, we wish to clarify that Matrix Private Investigations and Security was lawfully engaged by the complainant to carry out investigations.

“Our team successfully traced and located the vehicle in Malawi. Any statements casting doubt on the authenticity of this recovery are not only misleading but undermine a legitimate process undertaken by a licensed firm.”

The company also took a swipe at the conduct of the ZRP, suggesting its posture on the matter was out of step with the country’s vision for growth.

“As a nation striving toward modernization and progress across all sectors, any form of unprofessional conduct not only undermines Zimbabwe’s vision of becoming an upper-middle-income economy but also risks projecting a regressive image among our peer nations,” the statement continued.

“We urge members of the public to disregard unfounded reports and to seek information from verified and credible sources.”

Meanwhile, speaking to The Herald over the weekend, ZRP spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi warned the public against being misled by individuals claiming to operate across borders under the guise of international police cooperation.

“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.

“For the record, Interpol works within police structures, not with private entities or investigators,” said Nyathi.