The Zanu-PF youth member in Bulawayo and three men who allegedly masqueraded as Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) operatives who were jointly accused of using President Mnangagwa’s name to extort a woman of US$12 000 have been granted bail.
Bulawayo magistrate Mr Franklyn Mkhwananzi granted the quartet $300 bail each, on condition they report to the police twice a week, reside at their given addresses and not to interfere with witnesses.
Blessing Mushando was arrested in a joint operation by members of the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) from Harare and Bulawayo. He initially appeared in court on Saturday where he was remanded in custody by Bulawayo magistrate Miss Nomasiko Ndlovu.
The state alleges that on 24 March this year, Mushando drove to Shangani in a ZANU PF branded car and there he swindled Ms. Priscilla Ncube of USD$12 000. It is alleged that he told her that he was linked to President Mnangagwa and could liaise with his office to secure her Tobo mining syndicate.
On the same day, Mushando was given US$2 000 by Ms. Ncube after he convinced her that he had the capacity to assist her in securing the mine. Mushando was allegedly given the money by one Dumisani Ndlovu on behalf of Ms Ncube.
More: Sunday News