The Supreme Court has upheld the High Court’s decision to deny Mike Chimombe bail, dismissing his appeal.
In a statement, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed that the Supreme Court found compelling reasons for his continued detention. 
These reasons included the risk of him absconding, the seriousness of the charges against him, and the likelihood he will interfere with witnesses. The NPA said:
<blockquote>
On 6 March 2025, the Supreme Court dismissed Mike Chimombe’s bail appeal, upholding the High Court’s decision to deny him bail.
The court found that the state had established compelling reasons for his continued detention, including the likelihood of absconding, the seriousness of the charges and the risk of interfering with witnesses.
Chimombe has been at the centre of a high-profile fraud case involving allegations of misusing funds related to the Presidential goat-pass-on scheme.
Along with his co-accused, he was arrested in 2024 Chimombe was initially denied bail by the magistrate’s court in July 2024, with the court citing concerns that he was likely to abscond and interfere with witnesses.
He appealed this decision to the High Court, but the appeal was overtaken by events when he and his co-accused were indicted for trial at the High Court. 
In January 2025, Chimombe filed a further bail application at the High Court, which was also denied. The court reiterated the magistrate’s findings, emphasizing the seriousness of the charges and the risk of witness interference. 
Chimombe then took his case to the Supreme Court, arguing that the High Court erred by relying on the magistrate’s earlier findings instead of applying a fresh mind to his bail application. 
He maintained that the state failed to prove compelling reasons for his continued detention.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and his co-accused Moses Mpofu have been in remand prison since their arrest in June 2024.

Pindula News

The Supreme Court said Mike Chimombe will stay in prison.
They said he might run away, do bad things, and mess with the witnesses.
He is accused of doing bad things with government money.
He has been in jail since 2024 with his friend.
At first, he asked to leave jail, but they said he must stay.
He asked again, but the High Court also said no.
Now the Supreme Court also said no.

Supreme Court Dismisses Mike Chimombe’s Bail Application

A visibly unwell Mike Chimombe was dragged from a prison cell to appear in court on Monday after previously failing to attend his fraud trial at the High Court.
The businessman, who has been in remand prison since his arrest in June 2024, struggled to speak during his afternoon appearance before High Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/drama-as-sickly-mike-chimombe-dragged-to-court/">ZimLive</a>.
Chimombe sat in the dock with his head bowed and his face covered during the brief appearance.
Justice Kwenda had insisted that Chimombe be physically present in court, despite prison officials confirming that he was unwell.
Chimombe’s condition has delayed the commencement of his trial alongside business partner Moses Mpofu.
His lawyer, Lovemore Madhuku, informed the court a week earlier that Chimombe required at least seven days to recover from his ailment. However, Chimombe failed to appear again, prompting the judge to demand his presence in court.
Justice Kwenda accused the Zimbabwe Prisons and Correctional Services (ZPCS) of breaching his order to bring Chimombe to court on Monday.
The judge also criticised both the state and the defence for failing to inform him of Chimombe’s absence before the trial.
ZPCS subsequently brought Chimombe to court around 2 PM, where he informed the judge that he had nothing to say because he had already instructed his lawyers. The trial was then postponed to March 17.
Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of fraudulently acquiring a tender to supply goats under a government-run presidential goat pass-on scheme.

A man named Mike Chimombe was taken to court for not showing up to his fraud trial. He was sick and had to be brought from prison to court. The judge was not happy that he didn't show up before. Chimombe's lawyer said he needed time to get better, but he still didn't come to court. The trial was postponed to another date. Chimombe and his business partner are accused of cheating to get a contract to supply goats for a government scheme. The judge was upset with the prison and both sides for not telling him about Chimombe's absence earlier.

Sickly Mike Chimombe Dragged To Court For Fraud Trial

The trial of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who are facing fraud charges, was postponed to next Monday after Chimombe failed to show up for trial yesterday, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/us7-million-presidential-goats-scheme-fraud-trial-postponed-again-lawyer-says-chimombe-is-sick-and-needs-time-to-heal/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of defrauding the state of US$7 million in a Presidential Goats Pass-on Scheme.
According to a letter from doctors submitted before High Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda, Chimombe is currently ill and will require at least seven days to recuperate.
His lawyer, Ashiel Mugiya, asked for a postponement of the trial to next Monday to allow his client to heal. Said Mugiya:
<blockquote>
The basis of the application is that the second accused person, Mike Chimombe is not feeling well and is not in a state that he could stand trial.
I received a document dated the 22nd of February 2025 in which a medical practitioner attended to the second accused person.
The document indicates that the accused is expected to recuperate within seven days so my application is that the matter be postponed to Monday next week, on the 3rd of March for commencement of trial.
</blockquote>
Mugiya asked the court for an order to have Chimombe examined by a state doctor.
The prosecutor, Witness Mabhaudhi, disagreed with the request for a court order but did not object to delaying the trial. Said Mabhaudhi:
<blockquote>
It’s unlike a mental health issue. No one is challenging that medical report. We expect him (Chimombe) to be here on Monday so there is no need for him to be examined by a doctor. The matter has been remanded so that should suffice.
</blockquote>
The presiding judge, Kwenda, agreed to postpone the trial to Monday but sided with the state, deciding not to issue a court order for Chimombe to be examined by state doctors.
Chimombe and Mpofu have been in custody since their arrest in June 2024, and all their attempts to secure freedom have failed.
Their trial has faced many delays since they were indicted, with multiple postponements for various reasons.
The two also made an unsuccessful application to have their case referred to the Constitutional Court.
Mpofu and Chimombe allege that Wicknell Chivayo orchestrated their arrest after they leaked audios exposing alleged corruption in a US$40 million tender for election materials.
They claim Chivayo told them they wouldn’t get a fair share of the tender money because he had to “pay his people in government.”
Despite their claims, Chivayo has not been questioned by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC), leading Mpofu and Chimombe to accuse the authorities of selective prosecution.

Two people, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, are in trouble for fraud. They are accused of stealing $7 million in a Presidential Goats Pass-on Scheme. Chimombe didn't show up for court because he is sick. His lawyer asked for the trial to be delayed. The judge agreed and rescheduled the trial for next Monday. The prosecutors didn't want Chimombe to see a doctor but were fine with the delay. Chimombe and Mpofu have been in jail since June 2024. They say they were set up by Wicknell Chivayo, but nothing has happened to him. Their trial has been postponed many times.

High Court Reschedules Mpofu And Chimombe Fraud Trial

The trial of business partners Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, who are facing fraud charges involving US$7 million in the failed Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme, was unable to resume on Monday due to a family emergency.
According to <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/fraud-accused-mpofu-chimombes-trial-fails-to-take-off/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>, Advocate Tapson Dzvetero, one of the lawyers, lost his brother-in-law the night before.
High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda was informed of the situation, and Chipeta, standing in for Dzvetero, conveyed the news. Said Chipeta:
<blockquote>
Mr Dzvetero is attending the funeral of his brother-in-law who was electrocuted at the Support Unit last night.
Burial is expected on Wednesday or Thursday and my principal, Mr Dzvetero will not be available…but I received instructions that he might be available on the 19th /20th of February going forward.
</blockquote>
The trial of Mpofu and Chimombe, charged with fraud involving US$7 million in the failed Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme, has been postponed to February 20, where it will continue for five days.
The State is set to call three witnesses on the first day, with Titus Mbambi, Fungai Kapfunde, and Beverly Mutsikamahwe expected to testify.
The trial, originally slated to begin in October last year, was delayed following an application by the duo to refer the matter to the Constitutional Court.
However, the application was dismissed for lack of merit, allowing the trial to move forward.
Mpofu and Chimombe, who are currently in custody, had their bail application denied last month after the court determined they were likely to abscond, given the potential 20-year jail term they face if convicted.
The charges stem from their alleged involvement in forging documents to secure a tender to supply goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.

Business partners Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe are on trial for fraud, involving $7 million in the failed Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. The trial was postponed to February 20 because their lawyer had a family emergency. Three witnesses will testify when the trial resumes. The duo tried to delay the trial before, but it was dismissed. They are facing a 20-year jail term if convicted. They are accused of forging documents to win a tender to supply goats for the scheme.

Chimombe, Mpofu Trial Postponed To 20 February

High Court judge Justice Benjamin Chikowero has dismissed a bail appeal from jailed business partners Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe.
They are accused of defrauding the Harare City Council of US$9 million in a failed streetlights tender deal.
On Thursday, Justice Chikowero read only the key part of his ruling, saying the full reasons for the decision will be provided later.
Mpofu’s lawyer, Tapson Dzvetero, told reporters that they are now awaiting the complete judgment to receive further instructions from their clients. He said:
<blockquote>
Our appeal has been thrown out. The judge said the reasons will be made available in due course. We are now awaiting the judgment to determine our next course of action.
</blockquote>
The allegations against Mpofu and Chimombe arise from a streetlight rehabilitation project initiated by the Harare City Council in January last year.
The council received bids from 11 companies, including Mpofu’s Juluka Endo Joint Venture (Pvt) Ltd.
However, Mpofu’s company did not meet the required tender criteria, which included submitting stamped audited financial statements for the last two years and proof of payment for oversight committee fees.
Despite this, council officials allowed Mpofu to resubmit his bid. He is accused of submitting falsified documents during this process.
Last week, their appeal was dismissed in a separate case where they are accused of misappropriating $7 million in state funds from another tender fraud.
High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda ruled that they are considered flight risks, given the potential jail time they could face if convicted.

Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe are in trouble for a streetlights fraud case in Harare. They tried to get bail but the judge said no. They are accused of lying to get a tender deal for a project. They did not meet important criteria for the project but still submitted fake documents. They are also in trouble for another fraud case involving $7 million. The judge thinks they might run away if they are let out of jail. So, they have to stay in jail for now.

Chimombe And Mpofu Denied Bail In US$9 Million Harare Streetlights Fraud Case

Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe have said they intend to appeal to the Supreme Court against a High Court ruling that dismissed their application for bail pending appeal.
The duo is accused of siphoning US$7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme.
On Thursday, January 16, High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda rejected their bail application, citing the seriousness of the offense, which could result in a 20-year prison sentence if they are convicted.
He argued that such a severe penalty could easily motivate the accused to abscond from the trial, regardless of any surety offered.
Mpofu and Chimombe had attempted to assure the court of their commitment to stand trial by offering title deeds to property and surrendering their passports. 
However, the court deemed these measures inadequate, highlighting the risks of interference and non-attendance of the trial as outweighing the value of such sureties.
Through their lawyers, Chimombe and Mpofu expressed their dissatisfaction with the ruling and disagreed with Justice Kwenda’s reasoning in denying them bail.
Lovemore Madhuku, representing Chimombe, said they were disappointed by the outcome and did not agree with the judge’s reasoning. He added:
<blockquote>
Our clients have a right to appeal to the Supreme Court and we have been given instructions to do so, so we will be appealing as soon as we get the full judgment.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu have been in prison since June 2024, following their arrest, with multiple bail applications rejected by both the Magistrates’ and High Courts.
Their trial is scheduled to begin on February 10 and will proceed on a continuous roll.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu were denied bail again, as they are accused of stealing $7 million. The High Court judge said the offense was serious and could lead to a 20-year prison sentence. The two men offered title deeds and surrendered their passports, but the court said it was not enough. They plan to appeal to the Supreme Court. They have been in prison since June 2024, and their trial will start on February 10. They disagree with the judge's decision and want to appeal.

Mike Chimombe And Moses Mpofu Denied Bail, Again

The bail hearing for Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who face charges of US$7.7 million fraud in the US$88 million Presidential Goat Scheme, has been postponed to January 7, 2025. This follows an earlier postponement to January 3, 2025, announced on December 27, 2024.
According to The NewsHawks, the delay is due to Mpofu’s lawyer, Tapson Dzvetero, being on holiday. Consequently, the hearing for Chimombe was also postponed since their cases are closely related and should be addressed concurrently.
Chimombe and Mpofu were arrested in June 2024 and have been in detention ever since, with multiple bail applications being denied.
Their efforts to secure bail have been a lengthy and challenging process, as they continue to seek release under altered circumstances after facing repeated setbacks.
The duo argues that their arrest, detention, and prolonged pre-trial imprisonment violate their constitutional rights, particularly the right to bail and the right to be heard without undue delays.
However, High Court Justice Pisirayi Kwenda has dismissed their applications, labelling their claims as “frivolous” and stating that such issues should have been resolved at the magistrates’ court.
As it stands, Chimombe and Mpofu’s trial is set to continue on February 10, 2025.
Initially scheduled for January 17, 2025, the trial date was moved up after the defence, led by Lovemore Madhuku, pointed out that bail applications must be heard within 48 hours of being filed.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The bail hearing for two men, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who are accused of fraud in a goat scheme, has been postponed to January 7, 2025. Their lawyer was on holiday. Both men have been in detention since June 2024, with their bail applications denied. They say their rights are being violated. Their trial is set for February 10, 2025. The trial date was moved up because bail applications must be heard within 48 hours. The men are still fighting for their release.

Chimombe And Mpofu's Bail Hearing Postponed To January 7

The bail hearing for Wicknell Chivayo’s former business partners, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, in the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme fraud case, has been brought forward to January 3, 2025.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-bail-hearing-brought-forward/">The Herald</a>, the duo is seeking bail under altered circumstances.
Originally scheduled for January 17, 2025, the bail hearing was rescheduled after the defence team alerted Judge President Mary Dube to a critical legal requirement.
Bail applications must be heard within 48 hours of filing, with appeals needing resolution within 96 hours.
The hearing was initially moved to December 27, 2024, but the prosecution, unprepared to argue the matter, requested a postponement to January 3 to allow time for a comprehensive response. Both sides agreed to the delay.
Chimombe and Mpofu are charged with defrauding the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme of US$7.7 million.
Earlier this month, Justice Pisirayi Kwenda dismissed their application to refer the case to the Constitutional Court.
The duo argued that their arrest, detention, and pre-trial processes violated constitutional rights, necessitating intervention by the highest court in the land.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two men, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, are in trouble for stealing money from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. Their hearing for bail has been moved up to January 3, 2025. They are trying to get out of jail while they wait for their trial. The hearing got moved because of a legal rule. The men are accused of taking $7.7 million. They tried to say that their rights were violated, but the judge didn't agree. The trial will continue on January 3rd.

Chimombe And Mpofu's Bail Hearing In US$7.7 Million Fraud Case Moved Forward

The High Court has dismissed Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu’s application to refer their fraud case to the Constitutional Court, labelling their claims as “frivolous and vexatious.”
The two are accused of embezzling US$7.7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme. The court said that they sought to delay their trial.
The duo raised objections about their arrest, detention, and the involvement of a Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission official, Michael Reza, in denying them bail.
They also challenged the age of the court assessors, arguing that their advanced ages could hinder the fairness of the trial.
The defence, led by Lovemore Madhuku, argued that the law states the age limit for High Court judges is 70, yet the assessors who were sitting with Justice Pisirayi Kwenda were beyond that age.
Justice Kwenda rejected these claims, saying they were merely attempts to block prosecution and labelling the age-related argument as “ageism.” The trial is set to proceed. Said Kwenda:
<blockquote>
That was discrimination against elderly individuals.
The claim was not supported by any research, scientific evidence, or substantive knowledge about the assessors involved in this case.
There was no proof that their age affects their capacity to perform…
Now, with regards to the application for bail pending trial that was made before this court, it shows the two had an opportunity to challenge the law, but they did not do so. Timing is important.
I therefore find that issues which relates to their appearance in the magistrates’ court, withdrawal of bail consent are frivolous and vexatious because the court cannot do anything about it now. It’s in the past.
</blockquote>
The case returns to court on 10 February next year and will run on a continuous roll.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The High Court rejected Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu's request to take their fraud case to the Constitutional Court because it was seen as a way to delay the trial. They are accused of stealing US$7.7 million. They also objected to their arrest, detention, and the ages of the court assessors. The court said their claims were not valid and called them "frivolous and vexatious." The trial will continue as scheduled on 10 February next year. The court said their arguments were just excuses to avoid prosecution.

Chimombe And Mpofu's Constitutional Court Referral Denied By High Court

High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda criticised fraud-accused Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe when they appeared before him on Monday, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/chimombe-mpofu-backtrack-on-request-to-have-chivayo-testify-judge-tells-duo-to-take-court-proceedings-seriously/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
The pair withdrew a subpoena they had issued against their ex-business partner, Wicknell Chivayo, who they had initially sought as a witness in their application to refer the case to the Constitutional Court.
Mpofu and Chimombe’s legal team told the court that they no longer believed Chivayo’s testimony would be beneficial to their case.
In response, Justice Kwenda withdrew the subpoena and imposed costs on the two, urging them to take the court process more seriously. Said Kwenda:
<blockquote>
The subpoena issued to Mr Chivayo be and is hereby set aside. The first and second accused shall meet costs associated with the attendance of Mr Chivayo and his legal counsel.
</blockquote>
Advocate Sylvester Hashiti, representing Chivayo, said that his client was not a necessary witness. Said Hashiti:
<blockquote>
The court has ordered the setting aside of the subpoena because the court found that he is not a relevant witness in respect of this matter and anybody who has no relevance to the determination of this case is not a necessary or relevant witness so on that account the subpoena has been set aside.
You can only testify when you are necessary or relevant for the progress of a case.
Mr Chivayo knows nothing about the case. He was completely unaware of the case, he was not given notice and he was not given a summary of the case to testify on.
There is basically nothing which he brings before the court, the reason I say it was not relevant. He could not have testified on something he does not know about and is not involved in, and was never involved.
</blockquote>
The case continued with Judge Kwenda expressing frustration over the delays in the application for referral to the Constitutional Court.
He pointed out that the referral application should not take this long, yet it has been unresolved for one and a half months.
Mpofu and Chimombe also had plans to summon Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson Michael Reza in the matter but their lawyer, Professor Lovemore Madhuku, said it is no longer necessary.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mpofu and Chimombe are accused of fraud and wanted Wicknell Chivayo to testify in their case, but later changed their minds. The judge scolded them for not taking the case seriously and made them pay for Chivayo's legal fees. Chivayo's lawyer said he had nothing to do with the case. The judge was frustrated by the delays in the case and said it should have been resolved quicker. Mpofu and Chimombe also planned to summon the chairperson of ZACC but decided it wasn't necessary anymore. The case is still ongoing.

Chimombe, Mpofu Withdraw Subpoena Against Chivayo In Fraud Case

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who were seeking bail due to alleged changed circumstances in a case where they reportedly used false documents to secure a US$9.2 million tender for street lights in Harare, have been denied bail.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mpofu-chimombe-denied-bail-again/">The Herald</a>, Presiding magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa determined that there were no changed circumstances that would justify granting bail.
She remanded the two to November 28, pending the completion of investigations.
Mpofu and Chimombe allegedly submitted false documents while applying for a Harare City Council tender to rehabilitate street lights.
Allegations are that sometime in May 2024, Harare City Council readvertised a tender for two lots to fix street lights.
Responding to the advert, Mpofu and Chimombe acting for Juluka Enndo Joint Venture misrepresented that they were compliant with the provisions of Public Procurement and Disposal of Public Assets General Regulations by resubmitting a receipt which they had used in an earlier bid in which their company had been disqualified.
The accused also allegedly submitted a financial report claiming it was audited by a consultancy company which investigations have revealed is not registered.
They allegedly further misrepresented that they had undertaken similar work for City of Harare and were experienced in the area of street lights installations.
Juluka Enddo was awarded a tender on the basis of falsified information.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two men named Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu tried to get out of jail while waiting for their trial, but the judge said no. They are accused of using fake papers to get a big project for street lights in Harare. The judge didn't think anything had changed to let them go. The men have to stay in jail until November for more investigations. They are still not free.

Chimombe And Mpofu Denied Bail In Street Lights Fraud Case

Obert Jiri, the Secretary for Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water, and Rural Development, has said the government had to terminate the presidential goat scheme after Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu delivered only 6,978 goats out of the promised 86,000, for which payment had already been made.
During his appearance before the parliamentary portfolio committee on Public Accounts on Monday, Jiri explained that the programme stalled due to the failure to deliver the remaining goats. He said:
<blockquote>
The goats that were delivered to date, 6,978. The payment that was made was for the delivery of 86,000 goats.
That was the potential that could have been delivered. So out of 86,000, only 6,978 were delivered.
So, of course, the major bone of contention was this non-delivery, but before that, it was the price for goods, which we tried to negotiate within the confines of the contract to say that goods must go to this, and I think we had agreed to a decent price.
But even when we had agreed, the delivery could not happen.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu have been languishing in remand prison since June this year facing fraud charges in connection with the goats contract.
Prosecutors say Chimombe and Mpofu, who are facing fraud charges, forged a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) tax clearance certificate, and a National Social Security Authority (NSSA) compliance certificate in the name of Blackdeck Private Limited.
Blackdeck is the company that was awarded the tender by the Ministry of Lands to supply goats under the presidential goat pass-on scheme.
The State is alleging that Blackdeck misrepresented that it was in full compliance with ZIMRA and NSSA requirements, yet investigations indicated the QR code and the reference on NSSA compliance were issued to a totally different company.
It is being further alleged that Blackdeck was deregistered from the NSSA system in January 2016.
Blackdeck was not issued with a ZIMRA tax clearance for 2021 and the QR code on the forged tax clearance belonged to a different company.
Prosecutors further alleged that in 2021, the government introduced the presidential goat pass-on scheme to alleviate poverty among the less privileged households across the country. Said Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje:
<blockquote>
On September 3, 2021, the Ministry of Lands flighted a tender for the supply and delivery of goats for the presidential goat pass-on scheme with a closing date of September 17, 2021.
On November 16, 2021, the Ministry of Lands entered into a contract agreement with Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming for the supply and delivery of 632,001 goats for the presidential goat pass-on scheme valued at US$87,757,168.
The ministry, believing that what the accused persons had presented to them was true, went on and transferred ZWL$901,294,200 and ZWL$698,705,800 on 21 April 2022 and 29 June 2022 respectively summing up to ZWL$1.6 billion which was equivalent to US$7,712,197.10 into Blackdeck Private Limited’s bank account number towards the purchasing of the said goats.
</blockquote>
It is further alleged that Mpofu and Chimombe delayed the supply of the goats and they only managed to deliver a total of 4,208 goats valued at US$331,445.25 from the US$7,712,197.10 paid by the ministry and went on to convert the US$7,380,751.85 for their personal use.
Critics argue that Chimombe and Mpofu are being punished for revealing alleged corruption involving high-ranking State officials in the procurement of electoral materials for the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) ahead of the August 2023 general elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

The government's goat scheme was stopped because two men, Chimombe and Mpofu, did not deliver enough goats that were paid for. They are accused of fraud and lying about paperwork. The government gave them money to buy goats but they only bought a few and kept the rest. Some people think they are being punished for exposing corruption in the government. The men are now in trouble with the law for not delivering what they promised, causing problems for the goat scheme meant to help poor households.

Top Civil Servant Blames Chimombe, Mpofu For Collapse Of Presidential Goat Scheme

Lawyers representing businessmen Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, accused of US$7 million fraud related to a goat supply contract with the government, intend to call four witnesses to support their request to refer constitutional questions to the Constitutional Court regarding alleged infringements of their rights, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-hearing-deferred-again/">The Herald</a>.
The defence intends to call Michael Reza, the Chairman of the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission, accused of interfering with the right to bail, Henry Chapwanya, the Investigating officer, Tendayi Shonhai, the Acting chief public prosecutor, and Wicknell Chivayo.
The State does not oppose the defence’s move to call these witnesses, as some are State witnesses who are available.
The defence seeks to resolve constitutional issues before the trial begins, with the High Court starting hearings on the application.
On Tuesday, 29 October, High Court judge Justice Pisirayi Kwenda adjourned the case to November 11 for the defence to prepare summaries of the expected testimony from each witness, as per court rules.
Mpofu and Chimombe testified about Reza’s alleged interference with their bail, claiming that after the prosecution consented to bail, Reza’s actions led to the revocation of that consent.
The State had required them to provide title deeds, surrender passports, and pay US$1,000 bail each.
Under cross-examination, the duo struggled to explain how Chivayo was linked to the goat fraud case, conceding he had no direct connection but attempted to associate him with a different tender unrelated to the Presidential Goats Pass-on Scheme.
Mpofu and Chimombe face fraud charges for allegedly defrauding the government of over US$7 million through a fraudulent tender issued by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development.
Their lawyers argue that external forces are influencing the prosecution, and the charges constitute unlawful imprisonment related to unmet contractual obligations.
Justice Kwenda will address the constitutional issues raised, which will determine whether the trial proceeds or is referred to the Constitutional Court.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two businessmen are accused of fraud involving a goat supply contract with the government. Their lawyers want to bring up constitutional issues before the trial starts. They plan to call four witnesses to support their requests. The State does not oppose these witnesses. The case has been postponed to November 11 so the defense can prepare summaries of the witnesses' testimony. The businessmen claim a government official interfered with their bail. The trial will determine if it goes forward or is referred to the Constitutional Court.

Chimombe, Mpofu Hearing Deferred To November 11

The High Court on Tuesday, 22 October, started hearing the application by businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu for a referral to the Constitutional Court regarding their rights, which they claim are violated due to assessors in their trial being above 70 years old.
The trial, involving allegations of US$7 million embezzlement, was halted earlier this month after constitutional questions were raised.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-assessors-hearing-deferred/">The Herald</a>, the defence team, led by Professor Lovemore Madhuku, argued that the court’s composition was unconstitutional and sought to challenge Section 6 of the High Court Act, which allows for the appointment of assessors without an age limit.
The defence wants Section 6 struck off the statutes for contravening constitutional provisions.
It was confirmed that the assessors in Chimombe and Mpofu’s trial are above 70 years old, while the judge is below this age.
Professor Madhuku argued that the Constitutional Court’s age limit of 70 for judges should also apply to assessors.
The case will continue with the Constitutional Court examining the validity of these constitutional arguments. Said Prof Madhuku:
<blockquote>
The mere fact that there is a provision in the High Court Act, which allows assessors to be above 70, would mean that the High Court Act is unconstitutional. So we are seeking that referral of the questions to the Constitutional Court.
</blockquote>
Advocate Tapson Dzvetero, in a joint application, requested the court to refer to the Constitutional Court the question of whether the High Court’s refusal to entertain the accused’s appeal on the basis of their indictment amounts to a violation of their constitutional rights.
The defence team dropped several issues they wanted referred to the Constitutional Court, including the permission given for live streaming the trial. Their clients were happy with the broadcast but not with the handling of the matter.
The prosecution has yet to respond as the defence continues its submission.
The hearing was tentatively adjourned to October 29 for continuation.
Chimombe and Mpofu argue that the High Court Act does not specify a maximum age limit for assessors, which they claim contradicts the Constitution.
The Constitution sets a maximum age limit of 70, now 75 following an amendment, for judges, and the two argue that this applies to all judicial officers on the High Court.
In all criminal cases tried in the High Court, a judge sits with two assessors.
The judge decides questions of law alone, while questions of fact are decided by majority vote, with the judge and assessors having equal votes.
The prosecution argues that there is no law limiting the age of assessors in High Court criminal trials.
Therefore, the prosecution claims that the application by the fraud-accused duo for a referral to the Constitutional Court has no merit.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu are in a trial for embezzlement. They are challenging the use of older assessors in their trial, saying it violates their rights. The defence team argued that assessors over 70 years old are unconstitutional. They want the law changed to match the Constitution, which set an age limit of 70 for judges. The trial was stopped, and the case will continue to the Constitutional Court. The prosecution disagrees, saying there is no law limiting the age of assessors in High Court criminal trials.

Chimombe And Mpofu Challenge Use Of Older Assessors In High Court Trial

Former ZANU PF Mashonaland West provincial chairman Temba Mliswa believes that the court’s decision to allow the corruption trial of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu to be broadcast live indicates the involvement of a hidden influence in the case.
Chimombe and Mpofu have been in custody for over two months on corruption charges totalling more than US$7 million.
Their trial has been postponed to October 22 of this year. The duo appeared in the High Court in Harare on Thursday last week, with the proceedings broadcast live on ZTN.
They are accused of misappropriating approximately US$7.7 million from the Presidential Goat Pass-On Scheme.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Mliswa suggested that an ex-convict is orchestrating events behind the scenes to humiliate the two men.
While Mliswa did not disclose the identity of this individual, some commentators speculate that the arrests of Chimombe and Mpofu are linked to their conflict with Wicknell Chivayo, an ex-convict with close ties to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
The duo had leaked audio recordings alleging corruption involving Chivayo and several high-ranking state officials, and their prosecution is seen as a form of retaliation for disclosing information and “talking while they were eating.”
Mliswa asserted that it is only a matter of time before the tables turn against the ex-convict behind Chimombe and Mpofu’s prosecution. He wrote:
<blockquote>
I didn’t want to comment on the Chimomb and Mpofu case but the latest revelations that the case will be broadcasted live has confirmed my suspicions that there is a third hand behind. The case is more political than legal as all vestiges of the latter have fallen away.
The theatrics are efforts of a hidden hand making a statement of power. The basic facts of the case itself would allow, for Chimombe to be given bail long back as he has nothing to do with the case. It’s not his company and he was never part of the negotiations for the goat deal.
Yet the hidden hand seeks to flex its power and flaunt its extravagant leverage in ZANU-PF. We all know who the third hand is but time is our master. An ex-convict can only survive for so long even with all the money to silence and buy support.
Ende ZANU PF hayiiswe muhomwe such that one can wantonly abuse others like this. Some of us experienced the same with ZRP Commissioner Chihuri during his reign.
I was persecuted and dragged through courts unceasingly. Yet Mwari ndewemumhu wese. Nhasi aripi Chihuri?
It’s a warning to all those tugging the strings behind the scenes. When you have access to higher offices utilise it for positive things not wanton abuse of others. If this were the biggest corruption case we could believe the need to televise all that.
Yet even bigger corruption cases, like the Sandura Commission, have been held away from the limelight. It’s very sad how a whole system can be corrupted and abused to pander to the whims of a monied person.
Still, there is a limit to the use of money to buy control and leverage in the party. One day zvinopera chete. We know who is behind all this. God isn’t for one person.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two men, Chimombe and Mpofu, are in trouble for stealing money from a government scheme. A man named Mliswa says there is someone powerful behind their trial trying to embarrass them. This person might be connected to a man called Chivayo who is close to the President. Mliswa says this hidden influence won't last forever and that God is watching. The trial of Chimombe and Mpofu was shown on TV, which is unusual. Mliswa thinks this is all a political game to show power.

Temba Mliswa Says Hidden Forces At Play In Chimombe And Mpofu's Corruption Trial

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

Ex-convict Wicknell Chivayo has derided his detained business partners, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, calling them “petty criminals” rather than friends.
In a post on the social media platform X, Chivayo claimed that Chimombe and Mpofu are facing “inevitable conviction” for fraud related to two tender scandals: the goat supply scheme and street light contracts, in which they allegedly falsified documents and misappropriated millions of USD for personal gain.
Chivayo has previously referred to the pair as “incompetent idiots,” labelling one as his “teaboy” and the other as a “shoe-polisher.”
Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of defrauding the government in a US$7.7 million scheme involving the President’s Goats Initiative and a US$9 million tender for street lights from Harare City Council.
Their arrest followed their exposure of an alleged US$100 million corruption scandal involving the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) and several high-ranking state officials.
In response to a question on X from user LynneM, who asked, “Hana yako hairove here kana uchinzwa kuti your friends [Chimombe] &amp; Mpofu are rotting in Chikurubi?” Chivayo replied:
<blockquote>
Ichiroverei hayo nhai hadzvadzi, kana uine tu ma usd mbichana muhomwe hana haiwanzo rova zveku mhanya.
Get it right , those two were never my friends and as a patriotic and law abiding citizen I’m extremely grateful such petty two cents criminals have been brought to book.🤣🤣🤣.
I’m not a lawyer but the essential elements of “FRAUD” are unlawful misrepresentation and prejudice. They used fake documents = they misrepresented.
They got paid , didn’t deliver and converted the money to their own use = they prejudiced the government. Nyangwe vakano mutsa George Chikumbirike na Chris Anderson vabatsirane maonero angu apa a Conviction is inevitable…
Kana vaka ngwara their lawyers must concentrate more researching on mitigation. E.g “My lord our clients are both breadwinners and Father’s of 16 and 11 children each with different Mother’s , consequently they suffer from various venereal diseases which we can’t mention publicly here in court but can come and whisper to you in your chambers my Lord.”
Mungazoti ndine hutsinye iyo one strong point ye mitigation ndatovapa from Advocate Wicknell Chivayo SC.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Wicknell Chivayo is making fun of his business partners, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, calling them "petty criminals." He says they will be convicted for fraud involving millions of USD from the goat supply scheme and street light contracts. Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of defrauding the government in two different schemes. Chivayo also called them "incompetent idiots" and made fun of their legal defense strategy. He is not friends with them and believes their conviction is inevitable. The whole situation involves a corruption scandal with high-ranking officials in Zimbabwe.

Chivayo Mocks Detained Partners, Calls Them "Incompetent Idiots" And "Petty Criminals" Whose Conviction "Is Inevitable"

The High Court has once again dismissed a bail appeal by businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, marking the second time their request has been rejected, reported <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/chimombe-mpofu-bail-appeal-thrown-out-again/">ZimLive</a>.
The duo is accused of defrauding the state of US$7 million in a failed presidential goat supply scheme under a government-issued tender.
High Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda ruled on Wednesday that they should proceed to trial, as submitted by the State.
Prosecutors argued that a trial date had already been set, rendering their bail appeal moot. Ruled Justice Kwenda:
<blockquote>
The objection by the State to the hearing of this appeal based on mootness is upheld and the appeal is dismissed.
</blockquote>
Justice Kwenda had said it was his first time to preside over a bail appeal of someone who has been indicted for trial before the commencement of the trial. He said:
<blockquote>
If you are already appearing in a certain court, that court is supposed to deal with that matter.
You cannot be appearing in Court A and you go to Court B to apply for bail when that same matter is being heard in court.
To proceed in earnest, we should postpone the matter to the first of October when the trial commences. The trial is just 33 days away, why can’t we wait for the trial to commence?
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje told the court that Chimombe and Mpofu, who are facing fraud charges, forged a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) tax clearance certificate, and a National Social Security Authority (NSSA) compliance certificate in the name of Blackdeck Private Limited.
Blackdeck is the company that was awarded the tender by the Ministry of Lands to supply goats under the presidential goat pass-on scheme.
The State is alleging that Blackdeck misrepresented that it was in full compliance with ZIMRA and NSSA requirements, yet investigations indicated the QR code and the reference on NSSA compliance were issued to a totally different company.
It is being further alleged that Blackdeck was deregistered from the NSSA system in January 2016.
Blackdeck was not issued with a ZIMRA tax clearance for 2021 and the QR code on the forged tax clearance belonged to a different company.
Prosecutors further alleged that in 2021, the government introduced the presidential goat pass-on scheme to alleviate poverty among the less privileged households across the country. Said Chirenje:
<blockquote>
On September 3, 2021, the Ministry of Lands flighted a tender for the supply and delivery of goats for the presidential goat pass-on scheme with a closing date of September 17, 2021.
On November 16, 2021, the Ministry of Lands entered into a contract agreement with Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming for the supply and delivery of 632,001 goats for the presidential goat pass-on scheme valued at US$87,757,168.
The ministry, believing that what the accused persons had presented to them was true, went on and transferred ZWL$901,294,200 and ZWL$698,705,800 on 21 April 2022 and 29 June 2022 respectively summing up to ZWL$1.6 billion which was equivalent to US$7,712,197.10 into Blackdeck Private Limited’s bank account number towards the purchasing of the said goats.
</blockquote>
It is further alleged that Mpofu and Chimombe delayed the supply of the goats and they only managed to deliver a total of 4,208 goats valued at US$331,445.25 from the US$7,712,197.10 paid by the ministry and went on to convert the US$7,380,751.85 for their personal use.
Critics argue that Chimombe and Mpofu are being punished for revealing alleged corruption involving high-ranking State officials in the procurement of electoral materials for the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) ahead of the August 2023 general elections.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Two businessmen, Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, accused of scamming the government in a goat supply scheme, had their bail appeal rejected again by the High Court. The State argues they should go to trial, as a trial date is already set. They are accused of using fake documents to get a tender to supply goats for a government scheme meant to help poor households. The government paid them $7 million, but they only delivered a small number of goats and kept the rest of the money. Some people think they are being punished for exposing corruption involving top officials.

High Court Dismisses Bail Appeal For Chimombe And Mpofu Again

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

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.

Chimombe, Mpofu Bail Ruling Deferred To 16 July

Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe will spend their second consecutive weekend in remand prison after the presiding magistrate, Marewanazvo Gofa, failed to appear due to illness, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/fraudsters-mpofu-chimombe-to-spend-another-weekend-in-jail-as-presiding-magistrate-falls-sick/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
The two men have been languishing in remand prison following their arrest last week for the alleged misappropriation of US$7 million from the Presidential Goat Scheme funds.
Their bail hearing has been postponed for the second time this week because Magistrate Gofa is unwell.
The hearing has been rescheduled for Monday, with the hope that Gofa will have recovered by then.
During the previous court proceedings, the second investigating officer in the case, Henry Chapwanya, was on the witness stand.
Chapwanya opposed the defendants’ bail, arguing that Mpofu and Chimombe had provided false addresses, making them flight risks.
He also said that the two individuals held valid Chinese visas and had the financial means to sustain themselves in foreign countries.
Chimombe and Mpofu’s arrest came after they accused ZANU PF donor and President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s associate Wicknell Chivayo of fraudulently changing their contract with South African company Ren-Form and Better Brands to supply voting material to ZEC in the run-up to the 2023 general elections.
They are also suspected of leaking Wicknell Chivayo’s voice notes. In these recordings, Chivayo appeared to implicate several high-ranking government officials in an alleged fraudulent scheme related to the US$40 million ZEC tender.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chimombe, Mpofu To Spend Another Weekend In Jail

The investigating officer from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) handling the case of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, accused of defrauding the State of US$7 million, informed the court on Tuesday that the prosecution plans to call 13 witnesses in the trial.
Mpofu and Chimombe are accused of forging documents to win the tender of supplying goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.
They are being represented by Arshiel Mugiya and Tapson Dzvetero.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/13-witnesses-for-chimombe-mpofu-case/">The Herald</a>, as of Tuesday, 02 July, the investigating officer Henry Chapwanya recorded statements from six witnesses, with plans to obtain at least eight more.
Chapwanya argued that due to this ongoing process, bail should be denied to the accused individuals to prevent potential interference with witnesses. He said:
<blockquote>
The accused persons know most of the witnesses because they interacted with them during negotiations for the tender at the Ministry of Agriculture.
</blockquote>
Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje presented documentary evidence, a circulated memo on social media by the accused persons, indicating that the Government allocated approximately US$4 million for the project.
This contradicts the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s release, which stated the amount as US$7 million.
The proceedings were scheduled to resume today, July 3, with the defence lawyers expected to cross-examine Chapwanya.
It is important to note that Chimombe and Mpofu were only charged after they clashed with Wicknell Chivayo, regarding the distribution of funds from a controversial US$40 million deal to supply election materials to the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) ahead of the 2023 general elections.
On February 13, 2023, Mpofu and Chimombe allegedly entered into an agreement with South Africa-based Ren-Form CC to participate in ZEC tenders alongside Chivayo but were subsequently sidelined.
They are currently seeking US$10 million from Chivayo for lost earnings.
Furthermore, Chimombe and Mpofu are accused of leaking audio recordings in which Chivayo purportedly asserted that Mnangagwa and other high-ranking government officials were under his influence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Investigator Says 13 Witnesses Planned In Chimombe And Mpofu's Fraud Case

Mike Chimombe’s company, Millytake Enterprises (Private) Limited, has been evicted from its Eastlea offices in Harare, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200029118/incarcerated-chimombe-evicted">NewsDay</a>.
Chimombe and his associate Moses Mpofu are currently in remand prison following their arrest for allegedly defrauding the government of over US$7 million intended for the Presidential Goat Pass-on Scheme.
His company Millytake was evicted from the Eastlea offices by the new owner after the previous owner had terminated the lease, though Chimombe reportedly refused to vacate the premises.
Millytake Enterprises was registered in 2008 and is owned by Chimombe and Rusero Mitchell.
The company specialises in supplying commercial and industrial equipment and their services include construction, property development, economic consulting and research and consulting engineering.
According to a court order dated June 29, obtained by NewsDay, Chimombe has been given 10 days to vacate the premises. It reads:
<blockquote>
The first respondent and all those claiming occupation through him are hereby ordered to give vacant possession of Stand 7986 Salisbury Township Lot 1 of Beam Wireless Station Site of Salisbury Township Lands held under Deed of Transfer No 4811/2023 dated June 29, 2023, commonly known as No 5 Morton Jaffray Road, Eastlea, Harare, to the applicant within 10 days of service of this court order.
In the event of first respondent failing to comply with terms in para l above, the second respondent or his lawful deputy is hereby directed to evict first respondent and all those claiming occupation through him from the afore-mentioned property and give vacant possession of the property to the applicant.
The first respondent shall pay the applicant’s costs of suit on a legal practitioner client scale.
</blockquote>
Chimombe’s troubles began when he had a falling out with convicted criminal Wicknell Chivayo, who has close ties to President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Allegedly, Chimombe, Mpofu, and Chivayo secured a corrupt US$40 million tender from the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) to supply electoral materials for the disputed 2023 general elections.
Chimombe and Chivayo clashed over the distribution of proceeds from the ZEC tender.
In leaked audio recordings, Chivayo bragged about having influence over Mnangagwa and openly mocked Zimbabweans calling for his arrest.
Surprisingly, despite being central to the ZEC scandal, Chivayo has not faced questioning by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission regarding his alleged involvement.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mike Chimombe's Company Evicted From Eastlea Offices

The bail hearing of Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu in the US$7 million Presidential Goat Scheme fraud case continued at the Harare Magistrates Court on Monday.
The Investigating Officer (IO) from the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) argued that the two should remain in custody pending trial commencement.
Mpofu and Chimombe are accused of forging documents to win the tender to supply goats under the Presidential Goat Scheme.
They are represented by lawyers Arshiel Mugiya and Tapson Dzvetero.
As reported by <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/second-investigating-officer-testifies-in-chimombe-mpofu-case/">The Herald</a>, the first witness, Gamuchirai Zimunhu, part of the ZACC investigating team, concluded giving her evidence on Monday afternoon insisting that the two were flight risks.
Zimunhu stated she believed Mpofu provided her with an incorrect address, citing a house in Greendale that is currently under construction and uninhabitable. This led her to suspect that Mpofu may have provided false information.
The second investigating officer, Henry Chapwanya, also took to the witness stand. He told Magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa that the house had no doors or windows. Said Chapwanya:
<blockquote>
We found an unfinished house at the address provided by the first accused (Mpofu).
The house has no doors and windows and doesn’t look like anyone stays there.
We went around the house and it shows no one stays there.
</blockquote>
Chapwanya also said the duo should be denied bail because they disrupted a project initiated by President Emmerson Mnangagwa. He said:
<blockquote>
The actions by both derailed His Excellency’s vision to attain a middle-income economy. These types of economic saboteurs need to be dealt with using an iron fist.
</blockquote>
Added Chapwanya:
<blockquote>
My fear is with the reaction of the public. If you look on social media people are very angry. If released on bail, there will be protests on the streets, which will undermine peace and security in the nation as the country is expecting to host the SADC summit in the next few weeks.
</blockquote>
The bail hearing in the case is set to continue today, 02 July 2024.
ZANU PF sympathiser and cleric Passion Java was in the court gallery in solidarity with Chimombe and Mpofu.
According to <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/chimombe-mpofu-supplied-fake-address-for-bogus-company-court-told/">ZimLive</a>, Java chatted briefly with the two after the court adjourned before he left under a heavy escort comprising private security and state security agents.
A woman, believed to be Mpofu’s sister-in-law, allegedly harassed journalists for filming Java while he was chatting with Chimombe and Mpofu.
Outside the court, she reportedly became agitated and nearly broke the cell phone of another journalist who was filming.
Chimombe and Mpofu’s legal troubles began when they purportedly leaked their WhatsApp conversations with Wicknell Chivayo, an associate of President Mnangagwa embroiled in a $40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender controversy.
They alleged that Chivayo unlawfully altered their agreement with South African firms Ren-Form and Better Brands to provide election materials to ZEC ahead of the 2023 national elections.
Chimombe and Mpofu are also suspected to have leaked Chivayo’s voice notes in which he claimed to have captured President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
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Chivayo accuses Chimombe and Mpofu of employing advanced Artificial Intelligence to fabricate the voice note, making it appear as if he self-incriminated.
Last month, ZACC chairperson Michael Reza said that they had built a strong case against the trio. He said:
<blockquote>
I can tell you, right now we have some documents which we want to show the three gentlemen and I hope I am not prejudicing investigations, but I want Zimbabwe to know that we have not been sitting on this investigation.
We have collected certain facts and when that information comes on form 242 and if everything goes according to plan, we will use this to go to court.
You will see detailed information with facts, figures and numbers. You will see those things mark my words.
</blockquote>
However, Chivayo continues to evade accountability, as he has not been summoned for questioning by ZACC.
This situation could be seen as reinforcing his assertion in the leaked audios that he has “captured” the “system.”
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>
</div>

Bail Hearing For Chimombe And Mpofu Continues At Harare Magistrates Court

Authorities faced difficulties in locating the alleged fraud suspects and business partners Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, with the intent of apprehending them on Tuesday, Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa was told Thursday.
Speaking in court while opposing the accused persons’ bail application, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) investigating officer Gamuchirai Zimunhu said the two men evaded arrest on Tuesday.
Zimunhu said Chimombe and Mpofu later promised to visit the ZACC offices by 6 PM on Tuesday, but they ultimately failed to show up as agreed. She said (via <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/zacc-investigators-say-chimombe-mpofu-arrest-was-a-nightmare/">ZimLive)</a>:
<blockquote>
Public disorder may arise; people will no longer trust the justice system in that ZACC catches and releases people.
Accused may abscond from court. On Tuesday 25 June, we spent the greater part of the day manhunting for them and they were not at their place of residence.
We called them on Monday after they left. When Mr Chapwanya (the other IO) called Mr Mugiya to advise him that we wanted to see his client, Mr Chimombe said he was out of Harare and Mpofu was at his farm in Zvimba.
He promised to bring them before 6 PM but they didn’t come and Mugiya promised to bring them on Tuesday and we waited for them up to mid-day.
Mr Chapwanya advised Mugiya that his clients had turned hostile, which resulted in teams being deployed to manhunt the accused persons.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu were finally arrested on Wednesday around 10 AM after they finally handed themselves in.
Zimunhu also said she was not satisfied with the address given by Mpofu. She said:
<blockquote>
I’m not sure if he stays at the Greendale house because the house is not yet complete. The gardener was present when we went there.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu were on Friday, June 28, ordered to spend the weekend in remand prison after a bail ruling in their case was deferred to Monday, July 01.
The two individuals are accused of defrauding the government of $7 million that was earmarked for the Presidential Goat Scheme.
Chimombe and Mpofu allegedly failed to supply goats despite receiving full payment from the Government.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Investigators Said Search For Chimombe And Mpofu Was Challenging

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu have been ordered to spend the weekend in remand prison after a bail ruling in their case was deferred to Monday, July 01.
The two individuals are accused of defrauding the government of $7 million that was earmarked for the Presidential Goat Scheme.
On Monday, the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission’s investigating officer, Gamuchirai Sibongile Zimunhu, will continue testifying against the duo, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-to-spend-weekend-in-jail/">The Herald</a>.
Chimombe and Mpofu allegedly failed to supply goats despite receiving full payment from the Government.
On Friday, Zimunhu told the court that if the duo was released on bail, it could cause a public outcry as there was overwhelming evidence against Chimombe and Mpofu.
She said the public has an interest in the matter as the goats were supposed to benefit less privileged people in the country, hence people could protest if the two were granted bail.
Allegations are that Chimombe and Mpofu forged a ZIMRA Tax clearance certificate and an NSSA compliance certificate in the name of Blackdeck Private Limited and attached them to a bidding document which they submitted to the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Water, Fisheries and Rural Development for a tender for the supply and delivery of goats for the Presidential Goat Pass-on Scheme.
Chimombe and Mpofu allegedly misrepresented that the company was in full compliance with ZIMRA and NSSA requirements.
However, investigations indicated that the QR code and the reference on the NSSA compliance certificate were issued to a different company.
It is further alleged that Blackdeck Private Limited was deregistered from the NSSA system in January 2016.
The NPA said further investigations established that Blackdeck Private Limited was not issued with a ZIMRA tax clearance certificate for the year 2021 and that the QR code on the forged tax clearance certificate belonged to a different company. Said the NPA:
<blockquote>
The Ministry transferred ZWL901 294 200 and ZWL698 705 800 on the 21st of April 2022 and the 29th of June 2022 respectively into their bank account.
The total amount was ZWL1.6 billion and was equivalent to USD7 712 197. Following delays in the delivery of the goats, the Ministry of Lands officials made several engagements with the accused persons.
The accused persons misrepresented that they had mobilized 32 500 goats across the provinces which were ready to be distributed to the beneficiaries.
However, a verification process revealed that the accused persons only had 3,713 goats in their holding sites.
The Ministry cancelled the contract on the 29th of August 2022, following the discovery.
</blockquote>
Chimombe and Mpofu reportedly only supplied a total of 4 208 goats valued at US$331 445 and went on to convert US$7 380 751 to their personal use. Nothing was recovered.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chimombe And Mpofu To Spend Weekend In Jail

Former business associates of ex-convict Wicknell Chivayo, Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, along with their legal representatives, voluntarily presented themselves before the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) this Monday, June 24, to assist with investigations into an election corruption scandal involving the Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC).
However, Mpofu and Chimombe departed the ZACC offices without being interviewed.
The investigating officer, Henry Chapwanya, reportedly informed them that he was occupied with another case and would contact them once he had time available to conduct the necessary interviews
Briefing journalists about the case soon after presenting themselves on Monday morning, the duo’s lawyer Tapson Dzvetero said (via <a href="https://www.sundaymail.co.zw/chimombe-mpofu-appear-before-zacc-for-questioning">The Sunday Mail</a>):
<blockquote>
We just presented our clients to ZACC who indicated that they will call us when they need us. My clients are willing to assist with any investigation.
</blockquote>
Mpofu and Chimombe returned from a business trip to China on Thursday.
According to a leaked ZACC memorandum dated 07 June 2024, Chimombe and Mpofu potentially face charges of contravening section 113 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act chapter 9:23 relating to the theft of trust property, and section 8(2) of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act.
It is alleged that the duo were paid US$40 million by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development for them to supply and deliver goats meant to support underprivileged households across the country under the Presidential Goats Scheme.
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<div>
It is further alleged that after Mpofu and Chimombe received the funds from the Treasury, they did not deliver the goats as agreed but they went on and converted the funds for their use through purchasing luxurious houses and vehicles. 
</div>
</div>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chivayo's Alleged Accomplices In "Corrupt" ZEC Deal Leave ZACC Offices Without Being Interviewed

Economic Empowerment Group (EEG) president Mike Chimombe and his business partner Moses Mpofu are under investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC), over a botched US$87 million Presidential Goat Scheme.
According to a leaked ZACC memorandum dated 07 June 2024, Chimombe and Mpofu potentially face charges of contravening section 113 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act chapter 9:23 relating to the theft of trust property, and section 8(2) of the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act.
It is alleged that the duo were paid US$40 million by the Ministry of Finance and Economic Development for them to supply and deliver goats meant to support underprivileged households across the country under the Presidential Goats Scheme.
It is further alleged that after Mpofu and Chimombe received the funds from the Treasury, they did not deliver the goats as agreed but they went on and converted the funds for their use through purchasing luxurious houses and vehicles. Reads the memo:
<blockquote>
Investigations that ensued established that on 16 November 2021, the Government of Zimbabwe represented by the Ministry of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development entered into a contract agreement with Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming represented by Moses Mpofu valued at US$ 87 757 168.00 for the supply and delivery of 632 001 goats over a period of five years.
Investigations conducted established that there is no company registered in Zimbabwe as Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming, rather there is Blackdeck Private Limited registered on 12 February 2015 with two Directors being Moses Mpofu and Phinas Hazvineyi Kabisira.
Investigations further established the two parties agreed that the Ministry of Lands would make an advance payment of 30% to Blackdeck Livestock and Poultry Farming towards the purchasing of the said goats.
Further investigations established that on 21 April 2022 and 29 June 2022, the Ministry of Lands transferred ZWL$901 294 200.00 and ZWL$698 705 800.00 respectively into Blackdeck CABS bank account number 1006126120 towards the supply and delivery of the said goats.
The total amount transferred by the Ministry of Lands to Blackdeck to date is ZWL$1.6 billion or US$7 712 197.10 converted at interbank rate.
</blockquote>
The memo indicated that the investigation is ongoing as ZACC was seeking to get a reconciliation of the total number of goats delivered to date to the Ministry of Lands by Blackdeck.
ZACC also sought to obtain Blackdeck’s CABS bank statement in which the funds for the purchasing of the said goats were deposited by the Ministry of Lands.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Probes Chimombe, Mpofu Over Botched US$87 Million Presidential Goat Scheme

Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu, who are the two main suspects in the US$40 million Zimbabwe Electoral Commission (ZEC) tender scandal, have said they are unable to hand themselves over to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) for interviews as they are currently out of the country.
ZACC on Sunday said it was seeking to interview Mpofu, Chimombe, and Wicknell Chivayo to gather more information about the alleged ZEC deal and its beneficiaries.
Chimombe and Mpofu’s lawyers, Antonio &amp; Dzvetero Legal Practitioners, wrote to ZACC spokesperson Thandiwe Mlobane on Monday, June 17, saying their clients are currently “out of the country”, but will soon avail themselves once they are back. They wrote:
<blockquote>
We act for and on behalf of Messrs. Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe who have been made aware of press releases and / or advertisements in various media outlets, including print and electronic media, indicating your interest in interviewing them as part of an ongoing investigation.
Our clients are currently out of the country and will not be able to attend any interviews until their return to Zimbabwe, however, they are willing to co-operate fully with the investigations and are available to attend any requested interviews upon their return.
</blockquote>
Chivayo, an ex-convict, is at the centre of the scandal after he allegedly pocketed the proceeds of the corrupt deal after sidelining Mpofu and Chimombe.
Reports indicate that Chivayo won contracts of up to US$40 million with ZEC in the run-up to the August 2023 general elections for the provision of tents, electronic devices, biometric hardware and software, ink, and training among others.
Mpofu and Chimombe, who are demanding US$10 million in lost earnings from Chivayo, have released damaging information on him, including a deal involving the South African firm, Ren Form.
According to The NewsHawks, ZEC, in February 2023 initiated a procurement process and handpicked Chivayo and his partners to supply key electoral materials.
Chivayo, in collaboration with Chimombe and Mpofu, through Better Brands Security (Pvt) Ltd, owned by Scott Sakupwanya, entered into an agreement with Ren-Form CC, on 13 February 2023 to participate in Zimbabwe’s election tenders.
It is alleged that in cahoots with Ren-Form officials, Chivayo later fraudulently amended the agreement to remove his fellow business partners and grabbed the money for himself, 66% of the payments.
The parties agreed that Ren-Form would invoice and receive payments from ZEC, before depositing Better Brands’ portion into a South African bank account, and this left Chimombe and Mpofu livid.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Told To Wait For Return Of Chivayo's Business Partners

The <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Zimbabwe_Anti-Corruption_Commission/">Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission</a> (ZACC) has released a statement following the controversy around <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Wicknell_Chivayo/">Wicknell Chivayo’s leaked audios</a> and Chimombe’s letter that have circulated on social media.
ZACC says it will interview Chivayo, Chimombe and Mpofu regarding “issues related to money laundering and abuse of office” that it says the audio raise. 
Said the statement:
<blockquote>
Press Release for Immediate Release
Harare — (16 June 2024): The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC/the Commission) has taken note of a letter purportedly written by Messrs Moses Mpofu and Mike Chimombe, to a South African based company, REN-form, demanding payment and resolution of a contractual dispute. The Commission has also noted audios allegedly attributed to Mr. Wicknell Chivhayo.
The letter and recordings raise issues related to money laundering and abuse of office that fall within the purview of the Commission. Consequently, ZACC will be interviewing Messrs. Mpofu, Chimombe, and Chivhayo to gather more information and gain clarity on the matters highlighted. The Commission is also keen to interview Messrs Mpofu and Chimombe on the Presidential Goats Scheme mentioned in one of the audios.
The Commission reaffirms its commitment to curb corruption and promote honesty, financial discipline and transparency in the public and private sectors, in line with the mandate outlined in Section 255 of the Constitution of Zimbabwe.
The public is encouraged to report any instance of corruption and to support the Commission’s efforts in promoting a corruption-free Zimbabwe.
Released on behalf of the Commission by Spokesperson, Commissioner Thandiwe Mlobane. 
</blockquote>
<a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

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