MUTARE, August 6 2008 - Mozambiquan police officers are reportedly ill-treating Zimbabweans crossing into their country to shop for basic commodities or conduct business.

This follows the significant cutting down of the quantity of foodstuffs that Zimbabweans can buy from the neighbouring country.

“I lost thousands of Mozambiquan Meticais and groceries to the police, after being arrested on flimsy grounds and others, especially women, have had to offer sexual favours to some male police officers to escape the ill treatment,” said a Zimbabwean who fell victim to Mozambiquan police.

Tawanda Madondo, a Harare resident, said the police are arresting Zimbabweans on flimsy charges such as being falsely accused of being drunk,even when they are not driving.

Tonderai Sithole, another Zimbabwean said he was suspected of being a diamond dealer searching for buyers in Manica town and was searched.

He said when the police failed to find diamonds on him, they took away thousands of Meticais he had on him.

Beer lovers have also fallen prey to the police who seemingly become thirsty each time they see a Zimbabwean carrying a crate of beer.

Beer is in short supply in Zimbabwe and where it is available, prices are far beyond the reach of many.

A beer now costs about US$10 in most hotels, which is enough to buy two six packs in Mozambique.

Officials from the Mozambiquan consulate in Mutare refused to comment saying they needed to investigate the claims first.