Police are appealing for information that could help locate and arrest Wellington Jeremiah Masiwa, also known as Nyokayemabhunu (42), from Chigwada Village, Chief Negomo, Mazowe.
The self-employed suspect is wanted for allegedly swindling a local businessperson out of US$60,000 in a truck-purchase deal.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said that in June 2024, Nyokayemabhunu misrepresented to the complainant that he was in partnership with several foreign investors and could facilitate the expansion of the complainant’s mining business. Added Nyathi:
<blockquote>
Acting upon the misrepresentation, the complainant paid USD $ 60,000.00 for the procurement of two tipper trucks.
The complainant made several fruitless follow-ups on the trucks, and the suspect became evasive, prompting the complainant to file a police report.
</blockquote>
Nyathi is urging members of the public with information about the suspect’s whereabouts to contact the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800197, or report to the nearest police station.

Pindula News

The police are looking for a man named Nyokayemabhunu who is accused of stealing $60,000 from a businessperson in a fake truck deal. The suspect promised to help the businessperson’s mining business grow with foreign investors, but took the money and disappeared. The police want help to find him. If anyone knows where Nyokayemabhunu is, they can tell the police by calling (0242) 703631 or texting 0712 800197.

ZRP Launches Manhunt For Nyokayemabhunu Over Alleged US$60,000 Fraud

Harare Magistrate Ethel Chichera has sentenced Prosper Biziweki (48) to three years in prison after convicting him of forging the title deed of former Minister of Education Dzingai Mutumbuka’s house, which was fraudulently sold in June 2021.
Biziweki will, however, serve an effective two-year jail term after Chichera suspended one year on the condition of good behaviour.
Another suspect in the fraud case, Tatenda Wakatama, was acquitted on the grounds that he only placed an advertisement for the sale of the house.
Chichera, however, criticized the police for excluding several key suspects who she said should have been arrested for the offence.
She ruled that the forgery and illegal sale of the house were carried out by a syndicate, and most of its members had been turned into State witnesses by the police.
Chichera noted that one Lynna Mlambo stole Mutumbuka’s title deed from the Deeds Office, where she worked as a supervisor, but was brought in as a State witness by investigating officer Tafadzwa Marashe.
The police could not account for Jonah Ngome, who sold Mutumbuka’s house and in whose name the forged title deed was.
<h2>How the Fraud was Executed</h2>
The court heard that in June 2021, Wakatama, Biziweki, and Ngome stole from Mutumbuka by forging the title deed for his house.
They took the original title deed for house number 90 Harare Drive in Chisipite, Harare, and created a fake title deed in Ngome’s name.
They advertised the house on social media using the fake title deed.
Harrison Marange showed interest in buying the property, with Kenias Mutyisira helping to arrange the sale.
The two parties agreed on a price of US$140,000 for the house, with US$90,000 paid upfront as a deposit and US$50,000 to be paid after the property was registered and transferred.
Marange paid Ngome US$45,000 in September 2021 as part of the deposit, with the remaining US$45,000 due in October 2021.
The police stopped the transaction after Mangwere from the Registrar’s Office confirmed that the title deed in Ngome’s name was fake.
More: <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200039982/magistrate-blasts-police-in-mutumbuka-case">NewsDay</a>

A man named Prosper Biziweki was sentenced to three years in jail for forging a title deed and selling a former minister's house. He will serve two years in jail. Another suspect was acquitted. The police were criticized for not arresting all key suspects involved in the fraud. The court found that the forgery and sale of the house were done by a group of people. The fraudsters created a fake title deed, advertised the house, and sold it for $140,000. The transaction was stopped when officials found out the title deed was fake.

Man Sentenced To Three Years In Jail For Forging Title Deed And Selling Former Minister’s House

A 21-year-old Automotive Engineering student at Kwekwe Polytechnic College, Nicson Munesu Madhumhe, was sentenced to 210 hours of community service by the Kwekwe Magistrates’ Court after being convicted of fraud.
Madhumhe had submitted a forged HEXCO statement of results in an attempt to register for “On Job Educational Training (OJET).” 
He had failed three modules and, rather than retaking the exams, paid US$400 to Chancemore Sibanda, the Chief Security Officer at Kwekwe Polytechnic (who is currently at large), to falsify his results.
In April 2024, Madhumhe received a forged HEXCO statement showing distinctions in the failed subjects. However, when he submitted his OJET application, examination staff noticed discrepancies in the font size of his results.
A subsequent check in the National Examinations Management Information System (NEMIS) revealed the fraud. Madhumhe was confronted and admitted to obtaining the fake results from Sibanda.

A 21-year-old student at Kwekwe Polytechnic was sentenced to community service for faking his exam results. He paid someone to change his grades so he could pass his Automotive Engineering course. The school found out about the fake results when they noticed errors in the font. The student confessed to getting the fake results from a school officer who is now on the run. The student now has to do community service for his actions.

Kwekwe Polytechnic Student Sentenced For Forging HEXCO Results

The High Court of Zimbabwe, sitting in Harare, has convicted Hugh Tinashe Sibanda and Centenary Tobacco Company (Pvt) Ltd of fraud after they used forged documents to import 4.47 million litres of duty-free diesel between October 2022 and February 2023, resulting in a revenue loss of US$2.8 million to the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA).
The brief facts of the case according to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) are that Sibanda deceived CMED (Pvt) Ltd by falsely claiming that his company had government authorisation to import duty-free fuel for agricultural purposes. He presented counterfeit letters from the Ministry of Agriculture and ZIMRA, enabling his company to evade duty payments.
The fraud was uncovered in January 2023 when ZIMRA discovered the documents were forged and sought payment from CMED. 
After a trial, Sibanda was convicted and sentenced to 20 years in prison, with 5 years suspended for good behaviour, leaving him with an effective 15-year sentence.
Furthermore, Centenary Tobacco Company (Pvt) Ltd has been ordered to pay ZIMRA US$ 2.1 million, and the Sheriff of the High Court has been instructed to seize the company’s property to recover the outstanding funds.

The High Court in Zimbabwe found a man and a company guilty of fraud for using fake documents to import fuel without paying taxes, causing a loss of $2.8 million to the government. The man was sentenced to 20 years in prison, with 5 years suspended, while the company has to pay $2.1 million to the government. If they don't pay, their property will be seized. It all happened between October 2022 and February 2023, and the fraud was discovered in January 2023.

High Court Orders Centenary Tobacco Company To Pay ZIMRA US$2.1 Million

The Harare Magistrates’ Court has sentenced a bank teller, Walter Matare, to 4 years in prison for fraud.
However, 1 year of the sentence was suspended if he repaid US$40,377, the amount he defrauded from EmpowerBank between January and June 2023.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Matare manipulated the bank’s system by claiming Zimbabwean Dollar (ZWL) deposits as United States Dollar (USD) deposits. This allowed people connected to him to withdraw USD, even though they had deposited ZWL.
The fraud was discovered in June 2023 when Matare deposited one of his accomplices’ accounts, which was immediately withdrawn, raising suspicions.
An investigation revealed that Matare had been treating ZWL deposits as USD at a 1:1 exchange rate, allowing his accomplices to withdraw the money in USD right after it was deposited.

A bank teller named Walter Matare lied about deposits at EmpowerBank and stole $40,377. He was sentenced to 4 years in jail, but could be out in 3 if he repays the stolen money. He pretended Zimbabwean dollars were American dollars, letting his friends take out the money. The fraud was caught when Matare's friend withdrew money right after it was deposited. Matare treated ZWL as USD, letting his friends take out the money easily.

Bank Teller Sentenced To 4 Years After Falsifying Deposits To Steal US Dollars

Walter Makwalo, a 34-year-old Senior State Security Aide, was convicted of 17 counts of fraud after pretending to be the Officer Commanding Operations for the CIO Southern Region.
The Harare Magistrates’ Court heard that between early 2023 and September 2023, Makwalo deceived Simon George Lee, a farmer from Harare, by promising to help him arrest and prosecute two men, Maurizio and Gabriel Arezio, who had allegedly defrauded Lee of US$170,600.
Makwalo falsely claimed that bribes were needed to influence police officers, prosecutors, magistrates, and judges to make the case go in Lee’s favour. Believing this, Lee paid him US$21,300.
Makwalo was convicted and sentenced to 24 months in prison, but 18 months of the sentence were suspended for five years as long as he behaved well.
The remaining 6 months were suspended if he completed 210 hours of community service.

A man pretended to be a police officer and tricked a farmer out of $21,300 by promising to help with a fraud case. The man said he needed money to bribe other officials. He was caught and sentenced to prison, but part of his sentence was suspended if he behaved well and completed community service. Don't trust people who ask for money in exchange for help with legal matters.

Senior State Security Aide Defrauds Harare Farmer Of US$21,300

The University of South Africa (UNISA) has decided to take legal action against Walter Magaya for falsely claiming to have obtained a marketing diploma and an honorary doctorate from the institution.
Magaya submitted a photocopied and certified marketing diploma to the High Court last week as part of his attempt to have a decision by the Zimbabwe Football Association (ZIFA) overturned.
ZIFA had disqualified him from the presidential race, citing his failure to meet the required five Ordinary Level passes.
Magaya argued that his UNISA diploma, being a higher qualification, should be sufficient.
In a recent interview with Zimbabwean sports journalist Yvonne Tendai Mangunda, which has circulated widely on social media, Magaya claimed he had received an honorary doctorate from UNISA.
However, in a statement issued on January 29, UNISA confirmed that it has no record of Magaya as either a student or a graduate.
The university also asserted that it had never awarded him an honorary doctorate and condemned his fraudulent claims. The statement reads:
<blockquote>
The University of South Africa (Unisa) notes with serious concern information doing the rounds in the public domain as well as in a recent video circulating on social media, where it is purported that a certain Zimbabwean national, Walter Magaya, is a graduate or alumnus of the university.
Responding to a media query from a certain international media platform, the university confirmed that, based on the information provided by the said media platform, the system of the university could not find any record showing that Mr Magaya was ever registered or graduated with Unisa.
This effectively means that Unisa does not have Mr Magaya either as a student or a graduate. Any certificate/s he produces which he claims to be from Unisa is/are therefore fraudulent.
Subsequent to the issuing of the media response, the university also came across a video clip in the social media domain, wherein Mr Magaya also claims to have received an honorary doctorate from Unisa.
The university has never conferred any honorary doctorate on Mr Magaya and strongly condemns this false claim.
We believe that conduct of this nature damages and brings our brand into disrepute and we reserve the right to take appropriate corrective action.
Relevant authorities within the university have therefore been requested to take the necessary legal action in this regard.
</blockquote>

UNISA says Walter Magaya lied about getting a marketing diploma and honorary doctorate from them. They are taking legal action against him. ZIFA disqualified Magaya from a race for not having enough qualifications. Magaya showed a fake diploma to try to change ZIFA's decision. UNISA confirmed they have no record of Magaya as a student or graduate. They never gave him an honorary doctorate. UNISA is mad at Magaya for lying and damaging their reputation. They will take legal action against him.

UNISA Labels Magaya A Fraudster, Denies Awarding Him Diploma Or Honorary Doctorate

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) has denied involvement in a fake viral train driver training advert. The ad asked for applications via Gmail and payments through Ecocash.
After the advert, featuring Tatenda Ruze’s phone number circulated on social media, the NRZ responded.
In their statement, the NRZ urged the public not to engage with the scammer or share personal or financial information. The NRZ said:
<blockquote>
A fake advert on NRZ Train Driver course asking people to submit applications through a Gmail account and make payments to an Ecocash account is circulating on social media. The suspected scammer is using the name Tatenda Ruze and phone number +263782406319.
Do not engage with this scammer or provide any personal or financial information.
The NRZ advises members of the public that it does not use free email services such as Gmail accounts for official communications while payments are channelled through bank accounts in NRZ’s name.
The NRZ will never ask people to pay for service through personal mobile phone numbers.
The NRZ urges people who have responded to the fake advert and paid money to report to the nearest police station.
</blockquote>
Last week, the Civil Vehicle Registry (CVR) warned about a fraudster posing as a Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) employee in Eastlea, Harare.
The CVR revealed the suspect sent text messages to prospective drivers, claiming their licenses were ready and requesting a $50 payment.
Victims were instructed to send money via EcoCash or OneMoney. After payment, the fraudster blocked communication, leaving victims without licenses or contact options.

The National Railways of Zimbabwe (NRZ) says there's a fake ad for train driver training on social media. The ad asks for applications through Gmail and payments through Ecocash. NRZ warns not to give personal or financial info. NRZ doesn't use Gmail for official work or ask for payment through personal phone numbers. They advise victims to report to the police if they paid money. The Civil Vehicle Registry (CVR) also warned about a fraudster pretending to be from the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID) in Eastlea, Harare, asking for $50 for licenses via EcoCash or OneMoney.

Public Advised To Ignore Fake NRZ Training Ad On Social Media

A 36-year-old woman from Chikanga, Mutare, has been fined US$400 by the Mutare Magistrates’ Court for abusing the civil servants’ rebate scheme.
Lornah Bhobho, a pharmacist employed by the Ministry of Health and Child Care, was charged with fraud.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the incident occurred in March 2023 when Bhobho purchased a Toyota Aqua in her name without applying to import the vehicle through the civil servants rebate facility.
She then created a fraudulent rebate letter with a fake ZIMRA reference, falsely claiming authorization from the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development to import the vehicle duty-free.
The fraudulent rebate letter caused the state to lose potential revenue amounting to ZWL$4,264,625.17.
Bhobho was fined US$400, with a two-month imprisonment sentence in default of payment.
The Civil Servants Rebate Scheme is a government initiative that allows eligible civil servants to import motor vehicles at a reduced duty rate.
The scheme aims to improve the conditions of service for civil servants by providing them with a non-monetary benefit.
Civil servants who have served at least 10 years in the public service (or 2 years for health sector employees) are eligible. There are no restrictions for doctors.
The imported vehicle must be less than 10 years old from the date of manufacture.
Civil servants need to submit various documents, including a signed application letter, vehicle details, a letter from their Permanent Secretary, a recommendation letter from the Public Service Commission, and proof of employment.
The rebate amount varies based on the civil servant’s grade, with maximum thresholds set for different grades.
The scheme has been extended to members of service commissions and other qualifying civil servants.

A woman in Mutare was fined $400 for cheating the government's rebate program. She bought a car without following the rules and made a fake letter to avoid paying taxes. This cost the government over ZWL$4 million. The program lets civil servants get discounts on importing cars. To qualify, they need to have worked for a certain number of years and follow specific rules. This helps improve their work conditions. The woman got fined and may go to jail if she doesn't pay.

Civil Servant Fined US$400 For Abusing Rebate Scheme

Harare magistrate Stanley Mambanje on Thursday issued a warrant of arrest for Calton Mudiwiwa, who disappeared on the day he was supposed to hear his court verdict.
As reported by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200036580/suspected-fraudster-flees-court-judgment-photo">NewsDay</a>, Mudiwiwa is accused of defrauding a South Africa-based company out of R440,000 in a failed vehicle supply deal.
The case was reported by Davure Mining, represented by its manager Masimba Mukarati. 
Davure Mining is a company with operations in both South Africa and Zimbabwe, focusing on mining, cattle ranching, and agriculture.
According to prosecutors, on October 20, 2021, Mukarati wanted to buy a Toyota Hilux Legend 50 double-cab vehicle from South Africa. He shared this information with Mudiwiwa, who offered to help import the vehicle.
Davure Mining had money in its South Africa FNB Bank account and paid the vehicle’s price to Wish Worthy Investments, as instructed by Mudiwiwa.
After the payment, Mukarati provided proof of payment to Mudiwiwa, but Mudiwiwa allegedly failed to import the vehicle. He then started making false promises and became evasive.
Mukarati reported the issue to the police, which led to Mudiwiwa’s arrest.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man named Calton Mudiwiwa is wanted by the police for scamming a company out of R440,000. The company, Davure Mining, wanted to buy a vehicle from South Africa, but Mudiwiwa did not deliver the car after they paid him. The company reported him to the police, and now he is missing. The police have issued a warrant for his arrest. Davure Mining is a company that works in mining and farming in South Africa and Zimbabwe. Mudiwiwa took the money but did not deliver the vehicle, so now he is in trouble with the law.

Warrant Issued For Suspect In R440,000 Vehicle Supply Scam

Takudzwashe Malamulo, a former NetOne employee, has been charged with defrauding the telecommunications company of US$18,666 and ZWL$14,430,529 through fraudulent requisitions, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/ex-netone-clerk-faces-fraud-charges/">The Herald</a>.
Malamulo, 27, who worked as a filing clerk at NetOne’s headquarters in Harare, appeared before Magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu and was granted bail. He is due to return to court later this month.
The complaint was filed by Reggis Takaiteyi Chitekwe, NetOne’s regional loss control officer. 
Prosecutor Takudzwa Jambawu told the court that between January 2023 and January 2024, Malamulo used his position to create fake requisitions for equipment purchases.
He allegedly manipulated the company’s petty cash system and forged his superiors’ signatures to validate these fraudulent requests.
Instead of sending payments to legitimate suppliers, Malamulo allegedly directed the funds to his personal OneMoney account.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Takudzwashe Malamulo used to work for NetOne. He is accused of stealing money from the company, around US$18,666 and ZWL$14,430,529. He made fake requests for equipment and put the money in his personal account. A complaint was made by NetOne's officer. Now, Malamulo has been charged with fraud and has to go back to court. He was a filing clerk at the company's office in Harare, and he misused his position.

Former NetOne Employee Charged With Defrauding Company Of US$18,666

Police have appealed for information to help locate Mthulisi Cecil Ronald Moyo, a former branch manager at a wholesaler in Victoria Falls, who is accused of stealing over US$35,000 from his employer on October 22, 2024.
According to a statement posted on the ZRP’s official X page, Moyo, 23, was entrusted with depositing the cash into the wholesaler’s bank account after receiving it from a cash-in-transit crew.
However, instead of fulfilling his duties, Moyo allegedly fled with the money. The ZRP said:
<blockquote>
The ZRP is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Mthulisi Cecil Ronald Moyo (23) who is being sought in connection with a case of Fraud.
The suspect was employed as a branch manager at a wholesaler in Victoria Falls. On 22/10/24 he reported for duty at the shop and allegedly received US$35 390.00 from a cash in transit crew, which he was supposed to deposit into the wholesaler’s bank account.
However, the suspect took the money and fled to an unknown destination. Anyone with information to contact National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800197 or report at any nearest Police Station.
</blockquote>
In an unrelated case, on Friday, Police deployed on an operation “No To Cross Boarder Crimes” at Beitbridge Border Post arrested Rumbidzai Ndlela (33) for smuggling.
The Police intercepted a White Mercedes Benz Sprinter, vehicle registration number AGA 9507 at the Industrial Site, Beitbridge and recovered an assortment of contraband. It included:
<blockquote>
120 boxes of 12 X 750mls Viceroy, 43 boxes of 12 X 750mls Jacky Daniel’s, 57 boxes of 12 X 750mls Jameson, 39 boxes of 12 X 750mls Jacky Daniel’s Old, 60 boxes of 12 X 750mls Grants beer, 40 boxes of 12 X 750mls Best, 10 boxes of 12 X 750mls Chova, and 20 X 750mls Glen Fiddich.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man named Mthulisi Cecil Ronald Moyo stole US$35,000 from his employer at a wholesaler in Victoria Falls. He was supposed to deposit the money into the company's bank account, but he ran away with it. The police are asking for help finding him. In a different incident, a woman was arrested for smuggling alcohol at a border post. The police found a lot of different types of alcoholic drinks in her car.

Wholesale Manager Steals Over US$35,000 From Employer

A South African woman, Ntombelanga Pretty Labane, is scheduled to return to court in March 2025 to face fraud charges after earning more than R1.2 million working as a school teacher despite not having a matric certificate.
Labane, from Mpumalanga, holds a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree. However, she allegedly used a fraudulent matric certificate to apply to Walter Sisulu University, where she obtained her degree.
Mpumalanga provincial spokesperson for the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Monica Nyuswa, confirmed to <a href="https://www.iol.co.za/news/south-africa/mpumalanga/woman-without-matric-who-earned-r12-million-working-as-a-teacher-to-face-trial-next-year-1d845447-11fb-46cd-8572-7756647136f8?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR2x4BtOZxYyrfifPwpVq2AQsdM7OFvh8jhrzWDG3Lw3s8OtZmhiGgZscY0_aem_Xg_jHu60subgkf-ruTU9aA">IOL</a> that Labane’s case has been postponed to March for trial.
Labane, who is not in custody, has made several court appearances before the Amersfoort Magistrate’s Court in Mpumalanga.
She was arrested by the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation, also known as the Hawks, on charges of fraud.
Lt. Colonel Dineo Sekgotodi, a provincial Hawks spokesperson in Mpumalanga, said that Ntombelanga Pretty Labane had been employed as a teacher since 2016.
It is alleged that on September 1, 2016, Labane applied for a business and accounting teacher’s position at Hlelimfundo Secondary School in Amersfoort, under Mpumalanga’s Volksrust circuit.  Said Sekgotodi:
<blockquote>
Labane submitted a CV, copies of a fraudulent matric certificate, a B-ED degree, and SACE (SA Council for Educators) certificates to the school principal, who informed the school management team to consider her application. They then agreed that she is suitable for the post.
</blockquote>
The principal notified the School Governing Body (SGB) of the decision made by the school management team, and the SGB expressed its support for the decision. Said Sekgotodi:
<blockquote>
The management team allowed Labane to apply for the post, and she was given an application document called EDU 1 to apply for the post. SGB members and the principal signed the application forms on September 12, 2016.
All relevant documents were sent to the circuit manager who signed and took them to the Department of Education’s district office at Ermelo.
The application was sent to the Human Resource Persal registry section, and it was forwarded to the Human Resource Provisioning section.
After the human resource provisioning section checked it, it was forwarded to the employment section where it was captured and Labane was employed.
</blockquote>
Labane’s troubles began when a whistleblower, aware that the woman had not completed her matriculation, reported the issue to the Public Service Commission offices in Mpumalanga. This led to an investigation by the Public Service Commission. Said Sekgotodi:
<blockquote>
After the investigations, findings and recommendations were made.
The principal, circuit manager and the district office were asked about a fraudulent matric certificate and they reported that they did not notice that it was fraudulent as they do not have detectors to verify the validity of the documents.
The Public Service Commission referred the matter to the Hawks’ Secunda-based serious commercial crime investigation (unit) for further investigation in July 2022.
</blockquote>
The Hawks spokesperson confirmed to IOL that Labane is not in custody, as no arrest warrant has been issued against her.
Further investigations by the Hawks revealed that Labane does not possess a Grade 12 certificate.
She attempted the matric exams four times— in 2003, 2004, 2005, and 2006— but failed each time. Said the Hawks:
<blockquote>
Labane then forged the matric certificate by putting the certificate number: 040 9517 7028 B which belonged to another candidate called Nozipho Ritta Ngema.
The results that were appearing on her fraudulent matric certificate were not her real results.
</blockquote>
Labane submitted her fraudulent matric certificate to apply for admission at Walter Sisulu University, where she successfully obtained a Bachelor of Education (B.Ed) degree.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Summary:
A South African woman named Ntombelanga Pretty Labane made R1.2 million working as a teacher without a real matric certificate. She used a fake one to get her job. Labane faces fraud charges and will go to trial in March 2025. Despite having a B.Ed degree, she lied about having a matric to get hired. Labane's fake was caught after a whistleblower reported it. Further investigations revealed she failed her real matric exams many times. Labane used another person's certificate number to fake her own. She got her degree at Walter Sisulu University using the fake matric. Now she's in trouble with the law.

"South African Woman Earned R1.2 Million As A Teacher Using Fake Matric"

An accounts clerk at Stanley Primary School in Gweru has been arrested for allegedly defrauding the institution of US$70,000.
The suspect, Soneni Muchayabande (46), from Ascot Infill in Gweru, appeared before Magistrate Aelene Munamati on charges of fraud.
Muchayabande was granted bail set at US$100 and is scheduled to return to court on January 13, 2025.
Prosecutor Brendon Ndlovu told the court that Muchayabande collected various cash amounts for school fees but converted the money for her own use.
She then falsely claimed that the funds had been deposited into the school’s bank accounts and issued fraudulent receipts. Said Ndlovu:
<blockquote>
The accused misrepresented to Stanley Primary School that US$70 952 had been deposited into the school accounts and went on to author receipts of school fees in the receipt books yet the money had not been deposited into the bank accounts.
The accused person indicated that the money was deposited into the school account yet no deposit was made.
The accused person was positively identified by witnesses who paid fees to her at the school.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

An accounts clerk at Stanley Primary School in Gweru, named Soneni Muchayabande, has been arrested for stealing $70,000 from the school. She took money from parents for school fees but used it for herself and lied about depositing it into the school's bank accounts. She even gave out fake receipts. Muchayabande has been given bail and will go to court in January 2025. Witnesses saw her taking the money and giving out receipts.

Accounts Clerk Arrested For Defrauding School Of US$70,000

Former ZANU PF youth leader Lewis Matutu appeared in court on Tuesday on charges of fraud involving US$150,000.
Matutu is accused of stealing shares from Shusib Investments, a local mining company.
He was arraigned before Harare Magistrate Isheanesu Matova but was not asked to plead and was remanded out of custody on free bail.
Matutu allegedly conspired with Blessing Kusangaya, Tafadzwa Kusangaya, Muzimba Muhamba, and Chikwasha Muhamba to execute the fraud.
The group reportedly prepared and backdated annual returns dated April 30, 2018, which were backdated to 2014, 2016, 2017, and 2018, forging the signatures of the complainant and a third party, Lyton Shumba.
These fraudulent returns were filed with the Registrar of Companies, falsely indicating changes in shareholding and directorship, allowing the accused to claim majority shares.
The alleged fraud came to light on September 30, 2024, when the Department of Parks and Wildlife informed the complainant of a suspension of mining operations due to the accused’s claims of ownership.
Using the illegally obtained shares, the accused removed the complainant from directorship during an annual general meeting on November 19, 2024, and resolved to change the company address.
The complainant is said to have suffered a financial loss of US$150,000, with no recovery of the stolen assets reported.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Former ZANU PF youth leader Lewis Matutu is accused of stealing US$150,000 worth of shares from a mining company. He, along with others, allegedly used fake documents to claim ownership of the shares. The fraud was discovered in 2024 when mining operations were suspended due to the false claims. The complainant suffered a financial loss, and the stolen assets have not been recovered. Matutu appeared in court and was remanded on bail.

Former ZANU PF Youth Leader, Lewis Matutu, Charged With US$150,000 Fraud

Former Mashonaland West Minister of State, Reuben Marumahoko, was arrested on Monday on allegations of fraud and spent the night in custody, according to a report by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/ex-minister-marumahoko-spends-night-in-custody/">The Herald</a>.
Marumahoko, who served as a deputy minister in several government ministries, including Foreign Affairs, Home Affairs, and Regional Integration and International Cooperation, appeared in court on Tuesday where his bail application was deferred until Thursday.
Magistrate Nyasha Marufu agreed with the prosecution to postpone the ruling, citing concerns that Marumahoko might be a flight risk and could interfere with witnesses.
The prosecution’s concerns were further compounded by Marumahoko’s delay in surrendering to the police following his arrest.
In a related development, Marumahoko’s wife, Andy Maririmba, was arrested on Saturday on similar fraud charges.
The couple is accused of involvement in a scheme where Marumahoko allegedly received agricultural inputs under the Government’s Agricultural and Rural Development Authority (ARDA) commercial farmers’ joint venture programme, intended for 200 hectares of irrigated maize.
However, it is claimed that Marumahoko only planted 46 hectares, selling the remaining inputs—such as seeds, fertilizers, and chemicals—resulting in a loss of US$37,950 to ARDA.
Prosecutor Brighton Machekera is representing the State in the case.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A former government minister, Reuben Marumahoko, was arrested for fraud. He is accused of receiving agricultural inputs but only planted a small portion of it. His wife was also arrested for similar charges. The couple is said to have caused a loss of US$37,950 to the Government's agricultural program. Marumahoko appeared in court, and his bail application was postponed. The prosecution is worried he might run away or interfere with witnesses. The case is being handled by Prosecutor Brighton Machekera.

Former Minister Reuben Marumahoko Arrested On Fraud Charges

Langton Madara, director of Preperco Investments, attempted to defraud the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) of US$1.6 million in a bond paper supply contract.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/directors-bid-to-defraud-zrp-backfires/">The Herald</a>, the presiding magistrate Clever Tsikwa initially sentenced Madara to 36 months imprisonment.
However, 18 months of the sentence were suspended on condition of good behaviour, and the remaining 18 months were suspended on condition that Madara performs 630 hours of community service at Glen View Polyclinic.
The court considered Madara’s status as a first offender and noted that no money was lost since the fraud was discovered before payment was made.
Prosecutor Tendai Tapi proved that Madara submitted a fake bank guarantee to secure an advance payment from ZRP.
In 2022, the ZRP advertised for suppliers of bond paper in a newspaper, seeking reputable companies to supply in bulk, to which Madara responded.
The police awarded Madara the tender, and in January 2023, a contract was signed between ZRP and Madara, represented by Commissioner General of Police Godwin Tandabantu Matanga.
The contract included a special condition requiring the ZRP to make an advance payment of 15 per cent of the total cost of the bond paper, backed by a bank guarantee.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man named Langton Madara from Preperco Investments tried to cheat the Zimbabwe Republic Police out of $1.6 million by faking a bank guarantee for a bond paper supply contract. The court sentenced him to 18 months in prison and 18 months of community service. Thankfully, the fraud was caught before any money was paid. In 2022, Madara responded to a call for paper suppliers, got the contract, but tried to get an advance payment dishonestly. He got caught, and now he has to serve his sentence.

Preperco Director Sentenced For Attempted US$1.6 Million Fraud On ZRP

ZANU PF Central Committee member Dexter Taona Nduna (53), who was arrested last week for illegally collecting parking fees from motorists in Chegutu, was denied bail by the Chegutu Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 15 October. 
The former Chegutu West MP appeared before a magistrate on Saturday, facing fraud charges, and was remanded in custody. 
When he appeared again this Tuesday, he was denied bail and will return to court on 29 October.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Nduna allegedly misrepresented to two motorists that he was collecting parking fees on behalf of the Municipality of Chegutu, leading to his arrest after a police report was filed.
Last week, Nduna’s attempt to take over parking management in Harare from City Parking (Private) Limited, fully owned by the City of Harare, failed.
He later admitted to not performing the necessary due diligence before announcing that Team Chapter would take over parking management in Harare starting October 7.
During the same week, Nduna publicly apologised to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for attending the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) graduation ceremony the previous month without being on the list of graduands.
Nduna, who was pursuing a Bachelor of Substantive Laws Degree, sat among the graduates despite not graduating after failing three courses: Energy and Mining Law, Labour Law, and Language Acquisition and Intercultural Communication Literacy (Chinese Language).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dexter Nduna was arrested for collecting parking fees illegally. He was denied bail and will be in court again on October 29. He pretended to work for the Chegutu Municipality to collect money from drivers. He also tried to take over parking in Harare but failed. Nduna apologized to the President for attending a graduation ceremony he didn't qualify for. He failed three courses while studying for a law degree.

Dexter Nduna Denied Bail Over Illegal Parking Fee Collection

ZANU PF Central Committee member Dexter Taona Nduna (53) was arrested last week for illegally collecting parking fees from motorists in Chegutu.
The former Chegutu West MP appeared before a magistrate in Chegutu on Saturday, facing fraud charges, and was remanded in custody.
Prosecutor Tafadzwa Vhore told the court that Nduna deceived motorists by claiming that Team Chapter, a company connected to him, was authorised to collect vehicle parking fees in the town. Said Vhore (via <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/nduna-remanded-in-custody-following-chegutu-parking-fees-storm/">ZimLive</a>):
<blockquote>
The accused person made a representation to cause…to act upon the misrepresentation to his prejudice by telling him false demands on behalf of Chegutu municipality claiming that he wanted cash for parking.
</blockquote>
Nduna was represented by Unite Saizi from Saizi Law Chambers. The court deferred the matter to Tuesday for bail ruling.
Last week Nduna’s attempt to seize parking management in Harare from City Parking (Private) Limited, which is fully owned by the City of Harare, failed.
He later admitted that he had not performed the necessary due diligence before announcing that Team Chapter would take over parking management in Harare starting October 7.
During the same week, Nduna publicly apologised to President Emmerson Mnangagwa for attending the University of Zimbabwe (UZ) graduation ceremony the previous month when he was not on the list of graduands.
Nduna, who was pursuing a Bachelor of Substantive Laws Degree, sat among the graduates during the ceremony despite not graduating after he failed three courses: Energy and Mining Law, Labour Law, and Language Acquisition and Intercultural Communication Literacy (Chinese Language).
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Dexter Nduna, a member of ZANU PF, got arrested for making people pay for parking illegally in Chegutu. He is facing charges of fraud. Nduna said his company, Team Chapter, had permission to collect fees, but it was a lie. He is now in jail waiting for a ruling on bail. Before this, he also tried to take over parking management in Harare, but it didn't work. He even said sorry to the President for showing up at a graduation ceremony even though he didn't actually graduate.

Dexter Nduna Arrested For Illegally Collecting Parking Fees

A 31-year-old man from Belvedere, Harare, was arrested last week by the Southern Africa Regional Anti-Corruption Organisation (SARACO) for allegedly scamming victims by falsely claiming to drill boreholes for US$350 through a programme he claimed was endorsed by President Emmerson Mnangagwa and Zion Christian Church (ZCC) leader Samuel Mutendi.
Perfectman Dhafete faces charges under Section 137 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23], that is, theft by false pretences, fraud, and false advertising.
The scam involved deception and misrepresentation, as Dhafete falsely claimed to be affiliated with both the President and Bishop Mutendi while pretending to offer borehole drilling services under a non-existent programme.
He allegedly collected money from victims without delivering any services.
Complainants Clapperton Mucheki and Rosemary Chakacha reported losing money to Dhafete and an accomplice, Susan Sibanda, who remains at large.
SARACO apprehended Dhafete at Harare Gardens, where he admitted to collecting money from the complainants.
He appeared before a Harare magistrate and was granted $80 bail, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 24, 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A man in Harare pretended he could dig boreholes for people for money. He said the program was supported by the President and a church leader. He took money from people but didn't do the work. He got caught by the police and admitted to taking the money. He was given bail and will go to court in 2024. His accomplice is still on the run. Don't believe everything people tell you, always be cautious.

Harare Man Defrauds Residents In Fake Presidential Borehole Drilling Scheme

The trial of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who have been in custody for over two months on corruption charges exceeding US$7 million, has been postponed to October 22 of this year.
The duo appeared relaxed and seemingly in good spirits during their appearance in the High Court in Harare on Thursday, where the proceedings were broadcast live on ZTN.
Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of misappropriating a total of US$7.7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme.
Allegations include forging a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) tax clearance certificate and a National Social Security Authority (NSSA) compliance certificate under the name of Blackdeck Private Limited.
These documents were submitted with a bidding proposal to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries, and Rural Development for a tender to supply goats for the scheme.
By doing so, they misrepresented their company as being in full compliance with ZIMRA and NSSA regulations.
Their trial was postponed after their lawyers requested a referral to the Constitutional Court. Both defendants have pleaded not guilty to the charges.
When Chimombe and Mpofu appeared at the Harare High Court the previous day (Wednesday), their lawyers traded barbs with Justice Pisirayi Kwenda.
Defence lawyers raised concerns about the court’s composition, specifically the age of the assessors, and argued that these issues should have been addressed before the trial began.
The defence claimed there were constitutional matters stemming from the duo’s arrest that needed to be resolved by the Constitutional Court before trial.
However, the prosecution argued that they should have been notified of the new defence outline regarding constitutional issues.
Tapson Dzvetero, representing Mpofu, began reading the defence outline, asserting that Mpofu pleaded not guilty and will challenge the legality of his detention and prosecution.
The defence contended that the charges stemmed from a civil matter related to a contractual disagreement with the Ministry of Lands and Agriculture, rather than criminal fraud.
Mpofu’s lawyer argued that he did not misrepresent the company’s capacity to supply goats and argued that the charges were unwarranted since the ministry had not pursued recovery of any funds.
The defence suggested that external parties with ulterior motives were influencing the prosecution, particularly in light of social media posts.
Professor Lovemore Madhuku told the court that Chimombe shares similar constitutional concerns and argued against the trial proceeding under what they deemed an improper court composition.
Chimombe’s lawyer explained that he was not directly involved in Blackdeck’s operations and only sought to mediate between the company and the ministry after disputes arose.
Both accused claimed that their legal troubles intensified after audios suggesting bribery by Wicknell Chivayo led to their arrest, alleging that they were targeted as punishment for leaking information.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The trial of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu for corruption charges has been postponed to October 22. They are accused of stealing $7.7 million from a goat scheme. Their lawyers want the Constitutional Court to review their case. The defence says the charges are unfair and influenced by others. They claim they did not do anything wrong, and are being punished for exposing bribery by someone else. The trial is on hold while they argue about the fairness of the court and their innocence. Both defendants say they are not guilty.

Corruption Trial For Chimombe And Mpofu Postponed To October 22

In a first for corruption criminal court cases in Zimbabwe, ZTN has been granted permission to live broadcast the trial of businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu.
The two are accused of misappropriating funds totalling US$7.7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme.
Today’s hearing is set to begin at 2 PM at the High Court in Harare and can be viewed on the ZTN Prime channel or YouTube.
Chimombe and Mpofu allegedly forged tax and compliance certificates to secure a tender for supplying goats while misrepresenting their company’s compliance status. 
There is speculation that their troubles began after they allegedly leaked phone conversations with controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo, in which Chivayo claimed to have significant influence over President Emmerson Mnangagwa, which assured him of lucrative tenders.
In the leaked audios, Chivayo inadvertently revealed alleged corruption surrounding the awarding of a Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender in 2023.
The two were arrested a few weeks after the audio leak, while Chivayo was never arrested, and the presidency has not commented on the alleged corruption.
The accused persons, who were formerly charged with fraud on Wednesday, are contesting the court’s composition by questioning the legality of having assessors over the age of 70.
They seek a ruling from the Constitutional Court on the legality of having such assessors sit with the judge during the trial, along with other constitutional matters they want resolved before proceeding.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chimombe and Mpofu are going to trial for misusing $7.7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. The trial will be live-streamed at 2 PM on ZTN Prime or YouTube. They used fake documents to win a tender to supply goats. The trouble started when they leaked phone calls with businessman Chivayo, who claimed to have influence over the president. Chivayo also revealed corruption in a ZEC tender. Chimombe and Mpofu are contesting the trial's legality and want constitutional issues resolved before it continues. The president has not commented on the corruption allegations.

Corruption Trial of Chimombe and Mpofu to be Live Streamed

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has warned the public about scammers posing as Ministry officials who claim to offer loans, grants, and offer letters.
In a recent statement, the Ministry said that these scammers contact unsuspecting individuals and organisations through email and Facebook, impersonating Ministry officials. They often defraud their targets throughout the supposed application process. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce notes with great concern the continued fraud by scammers who are deceiving unsuspecting individuals and entities by purporting to be officials from the Ministry and offering fake grants and loan opportunities through email and Facebook.
The targeted individuals are being enticed into applying for loans but end up losing their hard-earned monies in the alleged application process.
Fake loans, grants, adverts and offer letters impersonating the Ministry are in circulation. Be warned that these loan and grant offers are the work of scammers and must be ignored.
The Ministry therefore takes this opportunity to advise all stakeholders and citizens that it is not offering loans and grants.
Anyone approached by such a proposition through email, Facebook or any other means must not entertain such offers.
Reports have been made to the relevant authorities and measures are being taken to make sure that the work of the fraudsters is stopped.
Please stay safe and report any suspicious messages. We encourage all concerned to verify the authenticity of any communication claiming to be from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce through the Communications and Advocacy Unit on email: info@moic.org.zw/ landline (263) 242 791823/702733/700472/ X Handle @Min_of_IC.
The Ministry regrets any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s vigilance and cooperation in combating the scams.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The Ministry of Industry and Commerce is warning people about fraudsters pretending to be Ministry officials offering loans and grants through email and Facebook. These scammers are tricking people into giving them money. The Ministry is not offering any loans or grants. If you receive any suspicious messages, do not respond and report it to the Ministry. The Ministry is working to stop these scammers. Remember to always verify any communication claiming to be from the Ministry. Stay safe and be cautious.

Ministry Of Industry And Commerce Warns Of Fraudsters

Two suspected land barons, Lillian Chitanga (52) and Spencer Mabeka (45), both from Mabelreign, Harare, appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court facing fraud charges. The pair are directors of Brickstone Builders and Contractors Private Limited.
In Zimbabwe, “land barons” refers to individuals or entities that illegally sell or lease land, often in urban areas, without proper authorization or legitimate ownership.
These people typically exploit the demand for housing by subdividing land and selling plots, sometimes misleading buyers about the legality of the transactions.
They may operate outside the law, bypassing regulations and necessary approvals from local authorities and often forge documents, such as approval letters, to appear legitimate.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the allegations date back to May 2002, when the City of Harare approved the subdivision of a portion of land in Belvedere Ridge View into 52 residential stands. However, this plan was never implemented.
Further allegations claim that Chitanga and Mabeka forged a distribution letter approving a layout plan dated April 20, 2021, along with an offer letter dated April 22, 2021.
Both documents were purportedly authored and signed by the Principal Director of Physical Planning in the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
They also forged another offer letter offering their company Brickstone Builders and Contractors Private Limited 14.4354 hectares of land dated 15 December 2015, purportedly authored and signed by the Housing Director of the City of Harare.
Equipped with the fake documents, the accused persons invaded the land and engaged a land developer to develop 52 residential stands measuring approximately 2000 square meters each.
They advertised and sold land to 45 unsuspecting land seekers who made payments ranging from US$ 25,000 to US$ 40,000.
They issued out lease agreements and offer letters signed by both accused persons as the land sellers.
The land seekers erected structures which were demolished by the city council.
</blockquote>
Chitanga and Mabeka filed an urgent chamber application with the High Court seeking to stop the Council from demolishing the structures as well as interdicting the Council from evicting them from the said land.
The prosecution alleges that the accused persons misrepresented in their court application that they were legal owners of the said land by tendering fake documents.
Investigations by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) revealed that the allocation letter that was presented before the courts by the accused persons was not authentic.
Chitanga and Mabeka will be back in court this Wednesday, 18 September, for the continuation of the bail hearing.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two people from Mabelreign, Harare, are in court for tricking 52 people who wanted to buy homes. They pretended to own land and sold it to people for lots of money. They showed fake papers to prove they owned the land. The city council destroyed the homes that were built on the land. Now, the two people are in trouble and will have another court date soon. It's important to be careful and make sure everything is legal when buying land.

Two Land Barons In Court For Fleecing 52 Home Seekers In Mabelreign

A Harare woman has been found guilty of stealing US$25,796 from a savings club and has been ordered to complete 420 hours of community service.
Barbra Matora (39), the former secretary and cash custodian for the Anglican Church Rebecca Savings Club, will serve her sentence at Warren Park Primary School in Harare.
Harare magistrate Sharon Rakafa convicted Matora of theft of trust property and sentenced her to 42 months in prison, with 12 months suspended for five years on the condition of good behaviour.
Of the remaining 38 months, 18 months were suspended on the condition that she repay the stolen amount of US$25,796 by October 31. The remaining 20 months were converted into 420 hours of community service.
Prosecutor Bonface Musvaire presented evidence showing that Matora was responsible for managing the cash and records of the Rebecca Savings Club.
The court heard that in January 2023, members of St. James Anglican Church in Warren Park 1 formed the Rebecca Savings Club, where each member was required to contribute a minimum of US$30 and a maximum of US$300 in savings, along with a monthly emergency fee of US$5.
Matora unlawfully converted the funds for her personal use and failed to account for the funds when requested by Rebecca Savings Club, represented by Nomsa Amin Nambale.
The court heard that in December 2023, members of the savings club held a meeting where they agreed that all members should be paid up by December 9.
Matora was tasked with handing over the cash for distribution among the members.
On December 4, 2023, Nambale received information that Matora had been arrested and detained at Harare Central Police Station for fraud.
When Nambale approached Matora to request an accounting of their money, Matora was unable to provide one.
Subsequently, Nambale and other members of Rebecca Savings Club visited Matora’s residence, where they recovered an empty metal cash box from her sister, Mary.
As a result, the club members suffered a loss of US$25,796.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Barbra Matora, a woman from Harare, stole $25,796 from a church savings club. She was caught and sentenced to 420 hours of community service. Barbra was in charge of the money for the Rebecca Savings Club but used some of it for herself. She couldn't explain where the money went and was arrested. The club members lost a lot of money because of her actions. Barbra has to pay back the stolen money by October 31 and do community service for the rest of her sentence.

Harare Woman Steals US$25 000 From Anglican Church Savings Club

A 32-year-old woman from Bulawayo appeared before the Tredgold Regional Magistrates’ Court facing theft charges after exploiting a technical glitch in NetOne’s OneMoney system to steal ZiG136,442.
Prosecutors told the court that from May 10 to May 31, 2024, Clara Ncube (32) took advantage of a system error that enabled mobile money transfers without corresponding deductions. Said the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA):
<blockquote>
She executed multiple transactions, each below the transactional limit of ZWG2 400 to avoid detection. NetOne has since rectified the glitch. The total value stolen was ZWG136 442 and ZWG112 042 was recovered.
</blockquote>
Ncube was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with 6 months suspended on the condition that she does not commit a similar offence. 
Additionally, 6 months of her sentence were suspended if she pays ZWG24,400 in restitution to the complainant, and another 6 months were suspended contingent upon her completing 211 hours of community service at Drill Hall CID Minerals.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A woman from Bulawayo used a mistake in the OneMoney system to steal a lot of money. She made many small transfers to avoid being caught. She stole a total of ZiG136,442 but some was recovered. The woman was sentenced to 18 months in prison, with some months suspended if she pays back some money and does community service. NetOne fixed the mistake in their system.

Bulawayo Woman Exploits OneMoney Glitch To Steal ZiG136,442

A 17-year-old boy from Zimre Park, Ruwa faces fraud charges after allegedly defrauding several high school students of a total of US$2,640.
The teenager reportedly promised to facilitate their membership in a SADC junior parliament programme but failed to deliver on his promises.
According to a statement from the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), the teenage suspect was arraigned before the Harare Magistrate’s Court on Monday, where he was charged with fraud. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
Sometime in July 2024, the accused person posed as a member of the Junior Parliament, promising students a chance to join the Junior Motivators SADC Parliament programme.
He charged them US$62 for registration and uniforms and US$50 for a camping trip to Domboshava Resort.
After receiving payments, he disappeared. The total amount involved was US$2,640. Nothing was recovered.
</blockquote>
He was released into the custody of his guardian and is scheduled to return to court on September 5, 2024.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

A 17-year-old boy is in trouble for tricking high school students out of $2,640. He promised to help them join a junior parliament program but took their money and ran. He was charged with fraud and will be back in court in September. The boy pretended to be part of the parliament, asked for money for registration and a camping trip, and then disappeared without helping the students. Now he is in trouble with the law for his scam.

17-Year-Old In Court For Scamming High School Students Out Of US$2,640

Harare regional magistrate, Marehwanazvo Gofa has denied bail to Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu who are facing fraud charges after they allegedly misappropriated US$7 million from the Presidential Goats Scheme.
Gofa said Chimombe and Mpofu are facing a serious charge, adding that the duo could interfere with State witnesses. Said Gofa (via <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-denied-bail/">The Herald</a>):
<blockquote>
In as much as this is not yet a trial, the accused were supposed to offer meaningful defence. They do not have plausible defence. They also failed to tender documentary evidence to prove that their company documents were legit.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu will return to court on August 7, 2024, for indictment, as the trial will be heard at the High Court.
Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje alleged that Mpofu and Chimombe forged documents to secure the tender to supply 600,000 goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.
He said investigations revealed that Blackdeck Pvt Ltd, the company linked to the accused, which they allegedly used to defraud the government, did not have a valid tax clearance.
The reference on the NSSA compliance certificate was issued to a different company, according to the prosecution.
It is alleged that Blackdeck Pvt Ltd was de-registered from the NSSA system in January 2016.
The court heard that acting on the misrepresentation, on 16 November 2021 the Ministry of Lands entered into an agreement with Blackdeck for the supply of 632 001 goats valued at US$87,7 million.
Between April and June 2022, the ministry transferred ZWL1.6 billion, which was equivalent to US$7 712 197, into the company’s bank account.
Consequently, their contract was cancelled on 29 August 2022 after Chimombe and Mpofu only supplied 4 208 goats valued at US$331 445.
They went on to convert US$7 380 751 to their personal use.
Critics argued that Chimombe and Mpofu’s arrest may be in retaliation for exposing alleged underhand deals between Wicknell Chivayo and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), which implicated several high-ranking government officials.
Chivayo is an ex-convict and an associate of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, as well as a ZANU PF donor
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu were denied bail by a judge in Zimbabwe. They are accused of fraud for taking $7 million from a goat scheme. The judge said they could interfere with witnesses. The trial will be at the High Court. They are accused of forging documents to get the goat contract. The company they used had problems with taxes. They were supposed to give 600,000 goats but only gave 4,208. They used the money for themselves. Some people think their arrest is revenge for exposing other government corruption.

Mike Chimombe And Moses Mpofu Denied Bail

Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri’s 35-year-old daughter, Tanya Rozina Rushesha, was arrested on Friday for alleged fraud, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/defence-minister-oppah-muchinguris-daughter-held-on-fraud-charges/">ZimLive</a>.
Detectives from the police commercial crimes unit apprehended Tanya after three individuals filed complaints against her for alleged fraud. A police officer was quoted as saying:
<blockquote>
She approached these business owners claiming to sell bulk fuel, and they placed large orders after giving her money. However, she has failed to deliver.
</blockquote>
Tanya’s arrest marks the second time in 2024 that the child of a Cabinet Minister has been taken into custody.
In May, Neville Mutsvangwa, the son of Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa, was arrested on charges of illegal currency dealing.
Neville and his two alleged accomplices spent nearly a month in remand prison before securing bail.
Following Neville’s arrest, Monica claimed that the arrest was “politically motivated” and accused Vice President Constantino Chiwenga of instigating the arrest.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Oppah Muchinguri's daughter Tanya Rushesha arrested for fraud. She took money for fuel but didn't deliver. This is the second time a Minister's child has been arrested in 2024. Neville Mutsvangwa, Monica Mutsvangwa's son, was also arrested for dealing with illegal currency. Monica thinks the arrests are politically motivated. Tanya and Neville are out on bail after spending time in jail. Police are investigating the fraud allegations against Tanya. VP Chiwenga is accused of starting the arrests.

Oppah Muchinguri’s Daughter Arrested On Fraud Charges

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who are facing fraud charges related to the alleged siphoning of over $7 million from the Presidential Goat Scheme, will continue to be held in remand prison until their bail application is ruled on next week.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-to-spend-another-week-in-custody/">The Herald</a>, the lawyers for the accused, Arshiel Mugiya and Tapson Dzvetero, completed their cross-examination of the lead investigator, Henry Chapwanya from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), on Tuesday, July 9th.
The state prosecutors are expected to file their closing arguments tomorrow, arguing against the granting of bail, while the defence counsel will submit their bail application arguments on Friday.
The presiding magistrate, Marehwanazvo Gofa, said the ruling on the bail application will be delivered on July 16.
Prosecutors have alleged that Mpofu and Chimombe forged documents to secure the tender to supply 600,000 goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.
The two lead investigators, Henry Chapwanya and Gamuchirai Zimunhu, provided evidence in court arguing that Mpofu and Chimombe should be denied bail.
They claimed that if released, the suspects would pose a flight risk and also the release could result in protests that would undermine the peace and security of the nation, especially with the upcoming SADC Summit scheduled in the next few weeks.
In addition, Chapwanya submitted that there was a high likelihood Mpofu and Chimombe would interfere with witnesses, as they had previously interacted with some of them during negotiations for the goat tender held with the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development.
Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje presented documentary evidence in the form of a memo that had been circulated on social media by the two suspects.
The memo stated that the government had provided them with around $4 million equivalent for the project.
Some critics have questioned the timing of the arrests of Mpofu and Chimombe, as the alleged fraud is said to have occurred a couple of years ago.
There has been speculation that their arrest may be in retaliation for exposing alleged underhand deals between Wicknell Chivayo and the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC), which implicated several high-ranking government officials.
Chivayo is an ex-convict and an associate of President Emmerson Mnangagwa, as well as a ZANU PF donor.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two men, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, are accused of stealing over $7 million from the Presidential Goat Scheme. Lawyers are arguing for their release on bail, but prosecutors say they should stay in jail. The decision on bail will be made on July 16. Prosecutors claim the men could run away or interfere with witnesses. Some think their arrest is connected to exposing illegal dealings involving high-ranking officials. The men are linked to President Emmerson Mnangagwa's associate, Wicknell Chivayo. The case is ongoing, with more information expected to come.

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