Graphic Designer Attachee (Harare)

Security Guards (Harare)

Emergency Room Doctor (Harare)

Nurse Anesthetist (Harare)

Insurance Consultant

Procurement Officer (Harare)

Electronics Technician (Harare)

Transport Manager (Bulawayo)

Trainee Sales Executive (Harare)

Technical Director (Harare)

Warehouse Manager (Harare)

Vice President Finance, Trilogy: Remote (Chitungwiza)

Brand Manager (Bulawayo)

Financial Management and Operations Director (Harare)

Data Analyst (Harare)

Field Security Associate (Harare)

Concrete Plant Technician

Class 1 Driver

Technician/Senior Technician

Laboratory Assistant

Project Officer

Drivers x4

Field Officer (Digital Skills)

Employee and Labour Relations Specialist (Harare)

Investigations Intern: Corporate Center (Harare)

District Strategic Information Officer (Nkayi)

Teller - First Street, Harare

Operations Business Leader (OMAO)

Social Media Executive (Harare)

Senior Loans Officer - Bulawayo Branch

Compliance Manager (Harare)

Refuelling Assistant (Masvingo)

Contact Centre Agent (Harare)

Grants and Compliance Manager (Harare)

Research Technical Assistant (Bulawayo)

Supervisor: Projects

Supervisor: Infrastructure Maintenance

Projects Administrator/Office Manager

Manager: Infrastructure Maintenance

Manager: Projects and Civil Works

Finance Officer Budgeting & Planning

Graduate Trainees

2024 Internship Opportunity

Sales Promoter (Harare)

Accountants x2 (Harare)

Farm Manager

LPG Gas Technician (Harare)

Stores Trainee (Harare)

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) says criminal abuse of duty and fraud are the most prevalent crimes reported in 2022, with the highest number of complaints made against public officials.
This came out in the ZACC 2022 annual report received by the Parliament of Zimbabwe recently.
According to the report, which was seen by <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200019798/zacc-flags-corruption-in-govt">NewsDay</a>, of the 684 reports received by ZACC, 332 (48.50%) were about criminal abuse of duty and 247 (36.10%) fraud.
Theft or theft of property, which amounts to 29, money laundering (21), bribery (11), forgery (nine), extortion (six), tax invasion (six), smuggling (four), and three externalisation cases, are some of the reported cases. Part of the report read:
<blockquote>
A crime analysis shows that reports of criminal abuse of duty and fraud remain the most prevalent crimes reported in the year under review.
These were mostly concentrated in local authorities and rural district councils where the compliance teams had not conducted any reviews.
Further categorising these complaints into sectors, from the 684, 335 were against public officials, representing 68,4% of the total reports received; 175 were against officials or entities in the private sector, representing 25,58% of the total; and 66 were against land barons, representing 9,64% of the total.
Of the 335 complaints received against public officials, 255 were against public officials in various government ministries, and 80 were against public officials in local authorities and parastatals.
The commission handled 16 complaints against elected officials, chiefs, headmen and village heads.
</blockquote>
ZACC also revealed that cases involving public officials in government ministries were mostly against those in Lands, Agriculture, Water, and Rural Resettlement; Mines and Mining Development; and Local Government and Public Works ministries. ZACC said:
<blockquote>
Forty-six of the complaints were against officials from the Lands Ministry, particularly the Lands Department. Most of the allegations against officials from the local authorities relate to the illegal sale of land or residential stands.
These corrupt tendencies were worsened by the emergence of land barons. For the year 2022, apart from arrests, the commission also focused on improving integrity, accountability and transparency in local authorities.
</blockquote>
Former ZACC chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo was cited as saying ZACC investigated a total of 157 (62%) and referred 134 (53%) dockets to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) from the 253 cases approved by the selection committee for investigations. She added:
Improved engagement with the NPAZ bore fruit as the year 2022 saw the commission recording a 72% conviction rate of the cases it had referred to the National Prosecuting Authority at the completion of trial.
Criminal abuse of duty involves a public officer, such as a government official or civil servant, intentionally abusing their position or authority for personal gain or to cause harm to others.
It refers to situations when a public officer acts unlawfully, dishonestly, or improperly beyond their duties, and their actions amount to a criminal offence.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/11/18/president-mnangagwa-reverses-the-appointment-of-general-valerio-sibanda-to-zanu-pf-politburo/">Pindula News</a>

Pindula News

Corruption Prevalent In Government Offices - ZACC

Former adviser to the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ) governor, <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Munyaradzi_Kereke">Munyaradzi Kereke</a> and the suspended chief executive of Harare Municipal Medical Aid Society (HMMAS), Everesto Rukasha, were on Monday, 13 November, granted US$200 bail each in a case in which they are accused of fraud involving US$400 000.
The duo was granted bail by Harare regional magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa.
In her bail ruling, Gofa remanded Kereke and Rukasha to 13 December, saying the two were not a flight risk and would be able to stand trial. She said:
<blockquote>
Even though the State is alleging that its case is strong before this court, there are two agreements of sale. Even though it is not yet a trial, the evidence is 50/50.
Also, the accused have a right to be seen as innocent until proven guilty. Since both of the accused are on bail pending trial for other offences, it shows that they have never flouted bail conditions granted to them by the higher courts.
To say they are flight risks when they have never shown any intention to flee does not hold water.
</blockquote>
According to court papers, sometime in early 2014, Rukasha and Kereke agreed to enter into an agreement, whereby the latter would sell his immovable property, Fortress Hospital located at number 9653 Ruwa Township, Chipukutu, Sebastopol, to HMMAS.
Kereke then appointed Newton Madzika, the managing director of Health Body Images (Pvt) Ltd, to conduct the transaction on his behalf.
On 07 November 2014, Rukasha representing HMMAS entered into an agreement of sale with Briward Private [Ltd] represented by Newton Madzika for the purchase of Fortress Hospital for US$800 000.
The full purchase price of US$800 000 was to be paid into the account of Health Body Images held with Kingdom Bank Limited.
On 14 November 2014, Madzika allegedly transferred US$800 000 into the trust account of Kereke’s lawyers, Mambosasa Legal Practitioners.
On 18 March 2022, Rukasha allegedly connived with Kereke to defraud HMMAS by writing a letter to HMMAS claiming that they still owed Kereke US$400 000 from the purchase of Fortress Hospital and demanding the payment.
Kereke allegedly approached the HMMAS board threatening to repossess the property which was still in his name and made it clear to it that he was still in possession of the title deeds to the property.
On 21 March 2022, Rukasha allegedly entered into a fraudulent acknowledgement of debt acknowledging that HMMAS was owing Kereke US$400 000.
Rukasha verbally instructed Sibusisiwe Mleya, the finance and administration manager of HMMAS to pay the money to Kereke.
On 12 July 2022, the Board realised that HMMAS had no legacy debt and stopped making payments. But that was after US$120 000 and another US$17 000 had already been paid to Kereke.
Kereke denied the allegation stating that the total amount that was supposed to be paid was US$1 138 000 and not the US$800 000 as alleged by the State.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Kereke, Accomplice Granted US$200 Bail Each

Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) director general Taguma Mahonde was on Monday granted bail by Harare magistrate Marewanazvo Gofa following his arrest by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) last Tuesday, <a href="https://www.zimlive.com/fraud-accused-zimstat-director-general-freed-on-bail/">reported ZimLive</a>.
Mahonde (53) faces fraud charges for allegedly claiming a US$4 000 school fees allowance for a child who does not exist.
In granting him bail, the Magistrate dismissed prosecutors’ argument that Mahonde was not an ideal candidate for bail as he was facing a serious offence. Said Gofa:
<blockquote>
The seriousness of the offence is not a valid reason to bar this court from granting the accused bail.
The State witness even agreed that there is no offence since even the board passed the resolution proposed by the accused.
The accused has a right to be seen as innocent until proven guilty.
This court therefore finds that he is a suitable candidate for bail.
Therefore, the accused shall pay US$200 bail to the clerk of court, surrender his travel documents, not interfere with witnesses and reside at his given address.
</blockquote>
Prosecutors alleged that on 24 June 2019, Mahonde entered into a contract of employment with ZIMSTAT as DG and an education allowance for himself and his children were part of his benefits.
On 03 September 2021, the ZIMSTAT board discussed Mahonde’s education allowance and resolved under Resolution BR500321/16 that the education allowance for the DG be reviewed upwards to US$800 per child per term for a maximum of three children.
Mahonde allegedly misrepresented to ZIMSTAT that he was claiming fees for three children for five terms to the amount of US$2 400 per term, despite the fact that he had officially claimed for two children initially.
In a bid to cover up the offence, Mahonde allegedly paid $756 047 on March 21 and 22 this year as a refund for claiming US$4 000 for a non-existent child.
However, the amount he paid back amounted to only US$826 using the rate of the day he paid.
ZIMSTAT head of internal audit, Claudious Matiza allegedly uncovered the offence and he was suspended by Mahonde in order to frustrate the investigation.
As a result, Mahonde was charged with contravening the Prevention of Corruption Act and an alternative charge of obstruction of justice.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMSTAT Director General, Taguma Mahonde, Granted US$200 Bail

Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) director general, Taguma Mahonde, is set to appear in court this Thursday, 28 September, following his arrest on fraud allegations.
Mahonde was arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) over allegations of flouting tender procedures in the disposal of official vehicles, and fraud involving the claiming of school fees for his children.
ZACC spokesperson, Thandiwe Mlobane, on Wednesday, told <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/zimstat-director-general-mahonde-arrested-for-fraud/">The Herald</a> that they are still conducting investigations. She said:
<blockquote>
I confirm that ZACC arrested the director general of ZimStat yesterday, 26 September 2023, in connection with the fraudulent claim of school fees for his children.
Further investigations are continuing in relation to flouting tender procedures.
</blockquote>
Mlobane said Mahonde brought a board resolution to ZACC that was made last week appearing to be authorising him to claim school fees, but in reality, the recent resolution differed from an initial resolution made last year. She said:
<blockquote>
The accused brought a resolution done last week by the board after realising that ZACC had completed investigations on the issue, authorising accused to claim the amounts he claimed since 2021 when he started the fraudulent claims.
This is despite the fact that they had made a resolution in 2022 on the issue of school fees for the accused’s children. He will be appearing in court tomorrow, 28 September 2023.
</blockquote>
The Herald reported sources as saying Mahonde allegedly claimed money as school fees allowances for his children but has failed to provide receipts or invoices from the schools to show that the claims were legitimate.
He also allegedly acquired top-of-the-range service vehicles for a pittance which had the effect of prejudicing the State of revenue.
Mahonde allegedly bought two vehicles before the expiry of five years which is a violation of the principles governing senior officials’ acquisition of vehicles.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMSTAT Director General, Taguma Mahonde, To Appear In Court

Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency (ZIMSTAT) Director General, Taguma Mahonde has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) for alleged corruption and corporate malpractices.
ZACC spokesperson Commissioner Thandiwe Mlobane confirmed the development in a telephone interview with <a href="https://nehandaradio.com/2023/09/26/exclusive-zimstat-director-general-taguma-mahonde-arrested-by-zacc-over-alleged-corruption/">Nehanda Radio</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
Director General of Zimbabwe National Statistics Agency, Taguma Mahonde has been arrested by ZACC for fraud. Investigations are still ongoing.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that Mahonde bought his service car, a Toyota Land Cruiser, which was originally priced at US$28 000, for only US$300 for the services rendered in three years.
He was also given a Land Rover Discovery which was bought in 2021. As a result, he ended up owning two vehicles in five years which is against principles of good governance.
Mahonde allegedly requested and received school fees allowances in US dollars for the 2023 first term despite that all employees at ZIMSTAT were being paid salaries in Zimbabwe dollars.
He was allegedly working in cahoots with the company’s Finance Director Romania Nyahwa to defraud the company of thousands of dollars.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZIMSTAT Director General Taguma Mahonde Arrested

Social media personality and actress Lorraine Guyo has been set free after the State declined to prosecute her for fraud citing a lack of evidence, reported <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/lorraine-guyo-released/">H-Metro</a>.
Guyo was on Tuesday, 22 August, released unconditionally and the vehicle at the centre of the fraud allegations was returned to her.
She had been arrested after she allegedly sold a vehicle and then hired bouncers to forcibly repossess the car.
Guyo became famous after posting a video on social media asking that men propose love to her ahead of Valentine’s Day in 2019.
She came to be known as the “Ndinyengeiwo girl” as the video went viral.
Following her 2019 viral video, various brands approached and used her for their commercials, including clothing retail store JanJam, fast-food chain Mambo’s, and financial institution Steward Bank.
In 2020, Guyo was left owing a number of people after throwing a birthday party that became a flop. Lorraine Guyo hired the Rainbow Towers Hotel as a venue.
She expected fans to pay US$3 for ordinary tickets and US$10 for VIP tickets to celebrate with her.
Despite a huge number of followers on social media due to her videos, she overestimated her popularity as not many were willing to pay money for the birthday event.
The poor attendance left her in debt and her failure to pay for some of the services such as the MC and entertainers she had hired to perform at the event.
Radio personality Chamvary was one of the people that Guyo failed to pay as she had hired her for the event.
Chamvary took to social media to express discontent.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Ndinyengeiwo Girl" Lorraine Guyo Released, Unconditionally

Social media personality <a href="https://pindula.co.zw/Lorraine_Guyo">Lorraine Guyo</a> has been arrested on fraud allegations.
<a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/breaking-lorraine-guyo-arrested-for-fraud/">H-Metro</a> reported that Guyo allegedly sold a vehicle and then hired bouncers to forcibly repossess the car.
She was expected to appear before a magistrate on Tuesday morning.
Guyo became famous after posting a video on social media asking that men propose love to her ahead of Valentine’s Day in 2019.
She came to be known as the “Ndinyengeiwo girl” as the video went viral.
Following her 2019 viral video, various brands approached and used her for their commercials, including clothing retail store JanJam, fast-food chain Mambo’s, and financial institution Steward Bank.
In 2020, Guyo was left owing a number of people after throwing a birthday party that became a flop. Lorraine Guyo hired the Rainbow Towers Hotel as a venue.
She expected fans to pay US$3 for ordinary tickets and US$10 for VIP tickets to celebrate with her.
Despite a huge number of followers on social media due to her videos, she overestimated her popularity as not many were willing to pay money for the birthday event.
The poor attendance left her in debt and her failure to pay for some of the services such as the MC and entertainers she had hired to perform at the event.
Radio personality Chamvary was one of the people that Guyo failed to pay as she had hired her for the event.
Chamvary took to social media to express discontent.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

"Ndinyengeiwo Girl" Lorraine Guyo Arrested For Fraud

Several job seekers have besieged a Bulawayo-based recruitment agency, Cosmopolitan Eagle Company, demanding refunds after the agent allegedly failed to facilitate overseas jobs and work permits for the applicants in violation of its promises.
Cosmopolitan Eagle Company, operating from Pioneer House in the city, placed advertisements claiming it was dealing in securing jobs and work permits as well as processing all travel documents for job seekers abroad.
Thandolwenkosi Ngwenya from Bulawayo told <a href="https://www.bmetro.co.zw/job-seekers-up-in-arms-with-recruitment-agent/">B-Metro</a> that he paid more than 1 000 to the recruitment agency but failed to secure the job that had been promised. He said:
<blockquote>
A relative told me about Cosmopolitan Eagle Company saying it was helping people in securing employment in Poland, Germany and Turkey and l became interested before I went to inquire about the company.
I visited the company premises at Pioneer House and met Linah Mugondomukandapi who is the owner and she told me everything about their services and how the process was being done. She assured me that if l didn’t succeed she was going to refund me.
</blockquote>
Ngwenya said in May 2021 he paid US$1 230 to Linah including US$1000 being application fee for a visa and US$230 travel insurance. He said:
<blockquote>
After six months I was informed that my work permit was ready and had to organise money to go to the Polish Embassy in Pretoria, South Africa.
When l went to the Polish Embassy l was informed that l had a high chance of being denied a visa and I informed the agency about the matter and she advised me to apply.
After applying for the visa l got denied and when l came back home, I asked for a refund from Linah and she started telling me stories.
Just imagine I used US$400 to go to South Africa and back home. I got fed up and Linah had also stopped answering my calls.
It’s really painful that l lost US$1 630 and R1800 to this agent. I trusted this lady and yet she seems heartless considering that things are hard these days.
I still owe people the money that l borrowed and ties have also been broken with friends and family as they are all asking why there is no refund and some are even suspecting that I squandered the money.
</blockquote>
Another victim who declined to be identified told B-Metro that she paid Linah US$920 in April claiming it was for visa processing.
She said Linah’s sister only paid her US$95 last month out of the US$920 she had paid.
Another victim who also requested anonymity said she was swindled of US$1 300 by Linah. She said:
<blockquote>
To this day l have not been paid a cent from the total amount of US$1 300 which l paid to her to facilitate my recruitment abroad.
Linah has also not given me back my passport. When I reported the matter to the police they advised me that it was a civil matter and I’m now planning to sue her.
</blockquote>
When reached for comment by the publication, Linah said it wasn’t her fault that some of her clients were not successful in getting their visas.
She said she was working with her international partners to ensure that all her clients are refunded.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Job Seekers Besiege Recruitment Agency Over Broken Promises

The Zimbabwe National Road Administration (ZINARA) has suspended nine employees deployed at various tollgates across the country for allegedly engaging in fraudulent activities.
According to a ZINARA internal communique from the risk and loss control unit to members of staff, the unit identified suspicious conduct at some tolling sites resulting in the suspensions.
ZINARA’s head of corporate communication and marketing Tsungie Manyeza confirmed the development to <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200014415/zinara-suspends-employees-over-fraud">NewsDay</a>. She said:
<blockquote>
As a rejuvenating brand, the new ZINARA is leaving no stone unturned in flushing out all forms of vices that negatively impact our revenue collection mandate.
The strengthening of our controls is fast yielding results in plugging revenue leakages in our systems.
We are taking a hardline stance against all forms of fraud and we have a robust procedure in place to close off the loopholes.
Meanwhile, our partnership with the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission in the forming of the integrity committee has also yielded positive results whose role has gone a long way in plugging leakages.
</blockquote>
Manyeza also urged members of the public to assist in plugging revenue leakages by reporting suspicious transactions. She said:
<blockquote>
We aim to improve customer experience at all levels of our operations and we always encourage customers to get receipts as proof of payment for all the transactions they do.
We also encourage them to check that the motor vehicle details on their receipts are correct.
</blockquote>
In December 2021, Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) chairperson Justice Loice Matanda-Moyo said ZINARA, the Vehicle Inspection Department (VID), and the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) were the most corrupt state departments.
Last month, a ZINARA licensing officer Patricia Chikorwe, stationed at the Harare Exhibition Park Branch, was sentenced to three years in jail after she was convicted of 258 counts of criminal abuse of office for manipulating the vehicle licensing system, resulting in a loss of potential revenue of US$168,458 for ZINARA.
In February last year, the ZACC arrested 12 ZINARA employees for fraud involving $9,8 million after they created fake tap cards which they swiped for motorists at the Shurugwi tollgate.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZINARA Suspends Nine Employees Over Fraud

A Harare man allegedly lost US$80 000 to a fraudster who claimed he operated a company called Homelife Furniture and Electrical Appliance Company, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/man-loses-us80-000-in-ponzi-scheme/">The Herald</a>.
The suspect Emmanuel Chikweza is being charged together with his Homelife Furniture and Electrical Appliance Company.
He appeared before Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi at the weekend and was remanded in custody to this Tuesday for bail application.
The complainant in the matter is Brighton Ushendibaba.
The court heard that sometime in January 2023, Chikweza approached the complainant to persuade him to invest US$80 000 in his company.
He promised Ushendibaba that if he gave him a total of US$80 000, his company would in return make sure that the complainant would get a monthly profit of US$25 000.
It is further alleged that from March 2023 to date, the complainant made follow-ups with the accused person for the promised profits but the accused became evasive and was no longer answering the complainants’ calls.
That was when Ushendibaba realised that he had been duped and he then reported the matter to the police.
The accused person allegedly never paid the complainant the monthly profits of US$25 000.
Instead, he converted the capital injected to his own use thereby prejudicing the complainant of US$80 000. Nothing was recovered.
Last week, <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/07/14/dont-invest-in-ponzi-pyramid-scheme-financial-intelligence-unit-tells-zimbabweans/">the</a> <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/2023/07/14/dont-invest-in-ponzi-pyramid-scheme-financial-intelligence-unit-tells-zimbabweans/">Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) warned members of the public against investing in Ponzi and Pyramid schemes</a>.
FIU said it had noted with concern the proliferation of Ponzi and Pyramid schemes in Zimbabwe.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Man Loses US$80 000 "Investment" To Fraudster

The Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC) says it has arrested the Executive Secretary for the Council for Legal Education on allegations of fraud.
In a statement, ZACC said Huggins Hardwork Duri was arrested for allegedly soliciting bribes from people who failed or did not sit for Conversion Examinations in exchange for facilitating registration with Council.
Duri has since appeared in Court and was remanded to 25 of August 2023 on US$500.00 bail. Read the statement by ZACC:
<blockquote>
ZACC arrested one Huggins Hardwork Duri on allegations of fraud. The accused person is the Executive Secretary for the Council for Legal Education, a Statutory Board responsible for regulating legal education, designating foreign legal qualifications and administration of conversion examinations among other functions.
It is alleged that the accused person was approaching persons who had graduated from Foreign Universities soliciting for bribes in exchange for facilitating registration with Council and ensuring that they were issued with certificates indicating a pass grade for all Conversion Examinations for persons that had failed the examinations or had not sat for these examinations.
The informant is a holder of a Law Degree obtained from a Foreign country. His application for exemption from writing Conversion Examinations had been rejected by Council. He threatened to report the accused person to law enforcement officials.
In exchange for not reporting the matter, the accused person undertook to facilitate the registration process for the informant on payment of the required registration fee of USD560.00.
The accused person would also ensure that the informant would get a pass grade for all subjects on his certificate even if he failed. The informant agreed to this arrangement and reported the matter to ZACC.
The accused was arrested after receiving USD520.00 which was part of the registration fees. Further investigations conducted established that the accused had issued 19 fraudulent certificates indicating a pass grade to individuals who had failed the examinations and to those that never sat any of the Council Examinations.
</blockquote>
ZACC added that Duri has since appeared in Court and was remanded to the 25th of August 2023 on US$500 bail.
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Arrests Council For Legal Education Official For Fraud

The Nelson Chamisa-led Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) has said forty-one (41) individuals fraudulently filed nomination papers as members of the party.
20 of the “fraudsters” filed nomination papers for National Assembly seats while the other 21 individuals filed for local authority seats.
In a statement on Monday, CCC national spokesperson Fadzayi Mahere said the party has filed criminal charges and also appealed to the Electoral Court. <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula</a> is publishing Mahere’s statement below:
<blockquote>
FRAUDULENT DOUBLE CANDIDATES
Pursuant to our press briefing on 22 June 2023, we filed objections against double candidates in terms of the procedure provided for under the Electoral Act. We have received no response from ZEC.
Consequently, we have noted an electoral appeal to the Electoral Court under EC3/2023 against the decision of the Nomination Court to accept the nomination forms of fraudulent double candidates whose forms carried forged signatures.
In addition, we have filed criminal complaints against all of the fraudulent candidates under RRB No. 5585161, ZRP Kopje.
For the avoidance of doubt, the following candidates are not candidates for the CCC:
NATIONAL ASSEMBLY
Harare Province
1. Sunningdale – Christmas Goremusandu
2. Mount Pleasant – Jonathan Machokoto
3. St Marys – Freddy Michael Musarirevu
4. Warren Park – Energy Tanaka Matika
5. Harare South – George Magweta; Hasha Trouble
6. Hatcliffe – Lloyd Sande
7. Hatfield – Admire Adam Griza
8. Hunyani – Terrence Khumbula
9. Epworth South – Solomon Baramasimbe; Didymus Bande
10. Harare Central – Irvine Hatitye Nyaningwe
11. Harare East – Malvin Razaru
12. Harare West – Farai Michael Padzarondora
13. Chitungwiza North – Enock Nyashadzashe Chitoro
14. Chitungwiza South – Shepard Kariramombe
15. Churu – Tichaona Nyikadzino
Bulawayo Province
16. Pelandaba- Tshabalala – Soneni Moyo
17. Entumbabe – Njube – Dingilizwe Tshuma
18. Pumula – Albert Mhlanga
Mashonaland East Province
19. Marondera Central – Misheck Manyere
Mashonaland West
20. Kariba – Andrew Mutsau
LOCAL AUTHORITIES
Bulawayo Municipality 
Ward 1 – Mbuso Siso
Ward 6 – Fikezweni Nyoni
Ward 12 – Siboniso Moyo
Ward 13 – Methuseli Bhebhe
Ward 15 – Ashton Mhlanga
Ward 18 – Mildred Ncube
Ward 22 – Mkhaliphi Sibanda
Ward 24 – Phumulani Sibanda
Ward 28 – Vusumuzi Chirwa
Marondera Municipality 
Ward 3 – Derick Mugumbate
Ward 7 – Godfery Basvi
Ward 10 – Jimmy Jalifu
Harare Municipality 
Ward 21 – Alexio Nyakudya
Ward 18 – Ncube Mildred
Ward 22 – Mkhaliphi Sibanda
Nkayi RDC
Ward 14 – Busani Sithole
Ward 16 – Mandlenkosi Tshuma
Ward 20 – Cephas Ncube
Ward 23 – Lovemore Banda
Ward 25 – Sambulo Maphosa
Ward 28 – One Ncube
Should the fraudulent candidates withdraw their candidature within 24 hours, the CCC will not persist with both the civil and criminal proceedings against them.
</blockquote>

CCC Sues 41 "Fraudulent" Candidates

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has confirmed the arrest of a 25-year-old man for alleged fraud, cybercrime and money laundering.
In a statement, ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said the suspect, Trynos Muzanenhamo, was once employed by a mobile phone provider.
His alleged accomplices, Trevor Muzanenhamo, Bradwell Shangwa and Timothy Bvuramiti, are still at large. Reads the statement:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police, confirms the arrest of Trynos Muzanenhamo (25) in connection with a spate of fraud, cybercrime and money laundering cases that occurred during the period extending from 2020 to June 2023.
The suspect used various techniques such as card cloning, identity theft, WhatsApp hacking, social media-aided advance fee fraud, corporate account hacking, phishing scams and hot airtime recharge scams, among others to dupe individuals and companies.
On 15th June 2023 detectives from Criminal Investigation Department’s Commercial Crimes Division, Harare acted on received information and arrested Trynos Muzanenhamo in Chiendambuya, Headlands after a speed chase.
The suspect was arrested while driving a Toyota Hilux GD 6 vehicle which he was using as a getaway car.
Investigations by the police established that the suspect, who was once employed by a mobile phone provider, sent a One Time Password code to unsuspecting members of the public for confirmation thereby enabling him to hack and gain access to the unsuspecting persons’ bank accounts.
The hacked accounts were used to receive fraudulently obtained funds from various sources.
The suspect would also hack WhatsApp accounts, use foreign accounts and fake identity documents to create fraudulent accounts which he used to defraud individuals and companies.
Subsequently, the victims were duped of approximately ZW$ 27 996 000. 00 and US$ 1 800.00.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing to members of the public who could have been defrauded through phone hacking, WhatsApp hacking and identity theft to report at the Criminal Investigation Commercial Crimes Division, Harare or any nearest Police Station.
Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of the suspect’s accomplices, Trevor Muzanenhamo, Bradwell Shangwa and Timothy Bvuramiti.
Anyone with information to contact National Complaints Desk on (242) 703631 or WhatsApp on 0712 800 197 or report at any nearest Police Station.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Police Arrest Fraud And Cybercrime Suspect After High-speed Chase

The Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development has advised members of the public to ignore a job advert message purportedly originating from the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID).
The message, which has been circulating on social media platforms, is inviting people who are trained as teachers or are university degree holders to contact a number provided and pay money via InnBucks to secure employment at VID.
The Ministry of Transport has dismissed the message as fake and warned the public to be wary of being scammed. The Ministry said:
<blockquote>
Ministry of Transport and Infrastructural Development wishes to notify the public of a fake recruitment message circulating on social media purporting to offer employment at the Vehicle Inspectorate Department (VID).
Kindly note that the Public Service Commission is mandated to recruit human capital on behalf of the Government of Zimbabwe and no individuals have been authorised to do the same.
We, therefore, urge the public to ignore such claims and call our toll-free numbers 08013121-3 for verification before any financial losses, which we won’t be liable for.
</blockquote>
According to <a href="https://www.rd.com/article/how-to-identify-a-scammer/">Reader’s Digest</a>, here is how to identify scammers:
<blockquote>
Online scammers often claim to be contacting you on behalf of businesses, brands or organizations you know and trust.
If a company or government agency unexpectedly call you on the phone, that’s a tip-off that a scammer may be on the other end of the line.
Beware of anyone who attempts to rush or push you into making a decision without first giving you time to verify and thoughtfully consider their requests.
Scan any emails, messages or online chats you receive for misspellings, grammatical errors, strange subject lines or other discrepancies.
Criminals build fake profiles on dating apps to lure you in with the promise of love, sometimes resorting to love bombing—and then try to coerce you into giving gifts or cash.
On social networks and fake online retailers that are created specifically to appear to be the real thing, it’s not uncommon to find goods at steep discounts. Trust your instincts, and know that if a price is too good to be true, it’s likely a scam.
A promise of easy money – No legitimate financial investment opportunity is sure to ever pay off 100% of the time—and cannot legally be advertised as “guaranteed” income—so be very leery of anyone promising such.
Requests an unusual payment option – It’s not uncommon for romance scammers or someone who’s hacked a friend’s social media account to request that you send money using peer-to-peer payment systems (PayPal, Venmo, Cash App, etc.), gift cards, Western Union, wire transfers or cryptocurrency tokens.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Scam Alert: VID Recruitment Message Is Fake- Ministry Of Transport

Police in Gweru, Midlands Province, are searching for Gerald Takunda Machimula (40) from Kadoma for defrauding his employer, Geo Associates Private Limited, of over US$134,000.
Machimula represented the company in Midlands Province and sold mine claims on behalf of the company but did not remit the money. An audit later revealed the fraud, and it was found that he submitted counterfeit receipts and certificates. 
Midlands Police Spokesperson Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko confirmed the incident. Said Inspector Mahoko:
<blockquote>
The suspect was employed by Geo Associates, a Harare-based company which owns mining claims in and around Midlands Province. The suspect was the company’s representative based in Midlands Province.
</blockquote>
Inspector Emmanuel Mahoko stated that the audit revealed Machimula had sold several claims but did not submit the money to the company. Machimula issued counterfeit receipts and certificates to conceal his fraudulent activities and later absconded.
Inspector Mahoko appealed to the public to report any information that could lead to the arrest of Machimula. He urged individuals to approach CID Gweru or the nearest police station with such information.
The offence of fraud is governed by section 136 of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act (Chapter 9:23). The penalty depends on the seriousness of the matter and offenders can be fined or imprisoned or both.
<h2><a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/">More Pindula News</a></h2>

Police Seek Kadoma Man For Defrauding Employer Of Over US$134 000

The Zimbabwe Anti-corruption Commission (ZACC) has launched a manhunt for two suspected fraudsters, Andy Baleni (aka Mambondini) and Tinashe Zimunya.
In a statement, ZACC said the suspects lured hundreds of people through an advert they flighted on ZBC Radio Stations, purporting to sell heavily discounted cement.  ZACC said:
<blockquote>
WANTED PERSONS!!! ZACConline is looking for ANDY BALENI, popularly known as MAMBONDINI and TINASHE ZIMUNYA, for fraud.
The last known address of these 2 was 363 Harare Drive Pomona, and both are the Directors of KOFFIE N KING CORPORATION.
The accused persons lured hundreds of people through an advert they flighted on ZBC Radio Stations, purporting to sell heavily discounted cement at US$7.80 per bag.
Anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of these criminals kindly reports to ZACC either via our social media platforms, Twitter, Facebook, or WhatsApp line 0719529483, Or our landline 0242 369602/5/8/14. See their attached photos.
</blockquote>
On Wednesday ZRP spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said Baleni and Zimunya allegedly defrauded 70 people of approximately US$300 000. He said:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with fraud cases involving the purported sale of cement “on special offer” to unsuspecting members of the public through advertisements on social media and radio stations by a company known as Koffie and King Hardware allegedly situated at 10 Mbuya Nehanda Street, Harare.
The suspects, Andy Baleni also known as Mambo Ndini whose last known address is Flat 3 Glen Lorne, Chishawasha, Harare and Tinashe Zimunya advertised cement on radio and social media platforms at very low prices and alleged special offers thereby luring the unsuspecting transacting public.
Delivery of the purported cement was said to be done within seven (7) days after payment for the consignment.
Resultantly, more than seventy (70) victims fell for the scam and were defrauded approximately USD$300 000-00.
</blockquote>
Asst Comm. Nyathi urged members of the public to exercise due diligence before making payments.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

ZACC Launches Manhunt For Mambondini

Police have launched a manhunt for two suspected fraudsters who allegedly defrauded 70 people of approximately US$300 000.
Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said Andy Baleni (aka Mambo Ndini) and Tinashe Zimunya used social media and radio stations to advertise cement which they said was on special offer.
Prospective customers were asked to pay for the cement with promises that the consignment would be delivered within seven days. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is concerned with fraud cases involving the purported sale of cement “on special offer” to unsuspecting members of the public through advertisements on social media and radio stations by a company known as Koffie and King Hardware allegedly situated at 10 Mbuya Nehanda Street, Harare.
The suspects, Andy Baleni also known as Mambo Ndini whose last known address is Flat 3 Glen Lorne, Chishawasha, Harare and Tinashe Zimunya advertised cement on radio and social media platforms at very low prices and alleged special offers thereby luring the unsuspecting transacting public.
Delivery of the purported cement was said to be done within seven (7) days after payment for the consignment.
Resultantly, more than seventy (70) victims fell for the scam and were defrauded approximately USD$300 000-00.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police is now appealing for information that may lead to the arrest of the accused persons.
We continue to implore members of the public to exercise due diligence before making any payments as this scam is now pointing fingers at the possibility of a pyramid scheme through the alleged sale of cement.
</blockquote>
Arguably, thousands of Zimbabweans have fallen victim to fraudsters over the years. Here are some ways to identify a fraudster:
<ul>
<li>Fraudsters may exhibit unusual or suspicious behavior, such as being evasive or avoiding direct questions.</li>
<li>Fraudsters may create a sense of urgency and pressure to act quickly without giving you time to think or do proper research.</li>
<li>Fraudsters may demand payment or financial information before providing goods or services.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Fraudsters Disappear With US$300 000 From Bogus Cement Deals

A Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church pastor based in Chegutu is allegedly on the run after he duped church members of their hard-earned money.
Pastor Fortunate Mawowa is said to have lured congregants into investing their money in a “company” he had set up.
He reportedly fled to South Africa in May last year when those who had invested in the company started asking for a return on their investments.
At least US$40 000 is believed to have been invested in his “company” but none of the investors received their dues.
One of Mawowa’s victims told <a href="https://www.hmetro.co.zw/sda-pastor-fleeces-church-members-flees-to-sa/">H-Metro</a> that he left for South Africa ostensibly to seek specialist medical treatment. said the victim:
<blockquote>
We have been duped of our hard-earned money after being sweet-talked into investing in his bogus scheme.
He bought a nice car and had a white wedding, which attracted so many people, using our investment funds.
Problems started when our investments matured and we needed to be paid.
He then started talking about being sick and sending apology text messages.
After realising that he was under pressure, he then went to South Africa under the disguise that he was going to see a specialist doctor.
</blockquote>
It is alleged that since he went to South Africa, Mawowa can no longer be reached and some of his victims have been approaching Mawowa’s mother demanding their money in vain.
In recent years, several reports have emerged indicating that thousands of people have fallen prey to fly-by-night pyramid schemes.
Police said in 2021, at least 10 000 people were scammed of over US$30 million after selling houses, vehicles, and other properties to invest in pyramid schemes.
Many Ponzi schemes share common characteristics. These are:
<ul>
<li>High returns with little or no risk.</li>
<li>Overly consistent returns.</li>
<li>Unregistered investments.</li>
<li>Unlicensed sellers.</li>
<li>Secretive, complex strategies.</li>
<li>Issues with paperwork.</li>
<li>Difficulty receiving payments.</li>
</ul>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

SDA Pastor Dupes Congregants, Flees To South Africa

The City of Harare has dismissed false reports claiming that it is offering discounts to ratepayers who settle their bills using foreign currency.
In a public notice on Wednesday, the local authority said the reports are being spread by “unscrupulous individuals” who are defrauding unsuspecting ratepayers, telling them to pay the money and collect the receipts later. Reads the notice:
<blockquote>
Please be advised that the City of Harare is not offering any discounts to customers on settlement of their accounts.
False reports have been peddled by unscrupulous individuals duping our clients under the pretense of issuing discounts on USD payments.
Council receipts are also issued instantly and under no circumstances should council ratepayers be asked to leave money and collect receipts later.
Council wishes to advise valuable ratepayers that when the discounts are available, these will be widely publicized and will be issued formally through council official sites.
For more information please contact 242 753000 or 0788654356.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

No Discounts For USD Payments - City Of Harare

A Harare magistrate has acquitted Wicknell Chivayo and his company Intratrek Zimbabwe of defrauding the Zimbabwe Power Company (ZPC) of US$5.8 million.
On Monday, 13 March 2023, Harare regional magistrate Lanzini Ncube granted Chivayo and Intratrek’s application for refusal for further remand at the close of the state case.
<a href="https://www.zimlive.com/chivayo-intratrek-acquitted-of-defrauding-zpc-of-us5-8-million/">ZimLive</a> reported that Chivayo and Intratrek were found not guilty and acquitted of all four counts of fraud, money laundering, violation of exchange control regulations and confiscation of profits due to lack of evidence.
Chivayo and Intratrek Zimbabwe were represented by Advocates Lewis Uriri and Sylvester Hashiti respectively, both instructed by Wilson Tatenda Manase of Manase &amp; Manase Legal Practitioners.
Tafara Chirambira and Tendayi Shonhayi appeared for the National Prosecuting Authority.
Here is what Magistrate Ncube said:
<blockquote>
Whilst I recognise the State’s prerogative to bring criminal complaints and charges against individuals, the law demands that same must be on the basis of reasonable suspicion and on probable cause.
It the High Court civil suit in which Intratrek won against ZPC, the complainant denied ever instituting a criminal suit against Chivayo and his company.
 It is a pinnacle of criminal procedure that for a person to be competently charged and tried of a criminal offence, there should be a person (natural or jurist) who should complain of criminal conduct of the accused persons.
It invites confusion and uncertainty on how the state formulated these charges preferred against the accused persons if the known complainant has denied ever instituting the same.
The State on June 30, 2022, through cabinet which is the highest decision-making body in the executive, the first arm of government, has already ordered that the contract between the accused persons and ZPC is valid and must be carried into effect. 
The pronouncements from cabinet are public knowledge hence the approval and endorsement for parties to continue with the project in issue.
“There can neither be reasonable suspicion nor probable cause on which accused persons can therefore be brought to court. There was no misrepresentation, prejudice nor fraud establishing any criminal charge against them.
The criminal charges preferred against the accused persons are expiable as they do not disclose any criminal act that warrants the adjudication of our criminal justice system. 
The cause of action arises from a contractual arrangement between accused persons and ZPC, which arrangement provides for all the applicable remedies in the event of breach, whether actual or perceived.
On a charge of fraud, the intention to deceive must exist at the time that the misrepresentation is made. In this case, such intention must be alleged to have existed on each of the dates on which invoices were presented to ZPC for payment. 
The non-existence of such intention immediately becomes apparent if one considers that the relationship between the parties was regulated by an Engineering Procurement and Construction Contract (EPC) which authorised payment before works had been done. 
Consequently, the allegations are neither founded upon nor do they meet the essential requirements of the crime of fraud as defined in the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act [Chapter 9:23].
The conduct complained against for both accused persons as constituting fraud is frivolous and cannot be supported by the factual circumstances under which the amount of USD$5,811,224 was utilised. 
There is uncontroverted evidence which proves that the entire amount paid by ZPC was utilised in accordance with the requirements of the EPC Contract.
The comprehensive report on the evaluation of the pre-commencement works which was jointly carried out and ratified by ZPC and accused persons on July 13, 2020, is clear. 
The importance of this evaluation report confirms that accused persons not only discharged their contractual mandate in full with respect to the pre-commencement works, but went further to utilise their own resources to complete some of the required works.
The report vindicates them from all the unfounded allegations that they short-changed or in the least, defrauded ZPC. 
Contrary to the misleading narrative as suggested in the state outline, the report confirms that as at July 13, 2020, ZPC owed Intratrek the sum of US$609,693.87 arising from works which have been over delivered. 
The acceptance by ZPC that the accused over delivered on its obligations in accordance with the EPC contract and utilised the advance payment for pre-commencement activities places beyond any reasonable doubt that no party was defrauded.
It escapes the mind how the charge of fraud can be sustained as arising from the foregoing circumstances. All payments made by ZPC were advance payments, they were authorised by the contractual document. 
The intention by both parties as expressed in the contract was that works would be done after the payments. 
That negates the intention on the part of the accused persons to cause any prejudice to ZPC.
It would be indeed a sad day for both justice and the economy of Zimbabwe to allow for untenable and fruitless prosecution of entities that should otherwise be advancing the national interest of the country without any sound or legal basis to do so. 
The complainant is a private company owned by the State, like the accused persons it must have the same rights and liabilities. 
The law is that whenever the State or its affiliate enters into a contract, it must be treated equally as the other party to the contract. 
It must find its remedies and/or incur its liabilities in terms of the contract.
The contract must be the beginning and the end in resolving whatever dispute that might arise between the parties. 
While grappling with power shortages stretching up to 16 hours of load shedding, the importance of the 100MW Gwanda Solar Project to the nation of Zimbabwe can therefore not be over emphasised. 
Achieving energy self-sufficiency lies at the core of government’s drive to make Zimbabwe an upper middle income economy by 2030.
Renewable energy and the guarantee of its availability dovetails and anchors the objectives under the National Development Strategy 1 and 2, which are economic blueprints of the Second Republic. 
I regrettably find the instigation of criminal proceedings as spurious and no court exercising its mind properly can convict. 
Accordingly, I hereby find both accused persons not guilty and acquitted on all five counts.
</blockquote>
More: <a href="https://news.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chivayo, Intratrek Acquitted Of US$5.8 Million Gwanda Solar Project Fraud

National Social Security Authority (NSSA) acting general manager Charles Shava, who was arrested on Thursday on a criminal abuse of office charge, has been granted bail by the Harare Magistrates Court, reported <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200008278/nssa-boss-gets-500-000-bail">NewsDay</a>.
Shava, who was being represented by Musindo Hungwe, was granted $500 000 bail when he appeared before Harare magistrate Stanford Mambanje on Friday.
Shava allegedly altered a board resolution that had rejected the proposed allowances for four NSSA doctors.
It is alleged that Shava caused the human resources manager to pay the allowances without approval, claiming the board had approved the allowances.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NSSA Boss Charles Shava Granted $500 000 Bail

Social media personality <a href="https://www.pindula.co.zw/Mai_Titi">Mai TT</a> appeared in court on Thursday, 02 March 2023 on allegations of defrauding a Harare woman of US$10 000.
According to <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/mai-titi-appears-in-court/">The Herald</a>, Mai TT, whose real name is Felistas Murata (36), borrowed the US$10 000 on the pretext that she wanted to venture into business and offered a hired car as collateral security.
She was not asked to plead to fraud and theft of trust property charges when she appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court.
The court heard that in September 2022, Mai TT approached Rachel Mhuka saying she was in need of US$10 000 so that she could start a business.
She allegedly volunteered to give Mhuka a Mercedes Benz (AFF9759), which she claimed belonged to her, as surety.
Mai TT told Mhuka that she would forfeit the Mercedes Benz in the event that she failed to repay the US$10 000 on or before 30 November 2022.
The State alleges that acting on the misrepresentation, Mhuka gave Murata US$10 000.
After some days, Mai Titi allegedly returned to Mhuka and demanded back the car saying it did not belong to her.
She allegedly offered Mhuka an Audi Q5 (AFG3701) and an expired passport as surety.
Sometime in January this year, Mhuka was then approached by police from ZRP Rhodesville, who then seized the Audi Q5 saying it belonged to Else Event Car Hire.
Mhuka then lodged a complaint with the police leading to Mai TT’s arrest.
It is further alleged that Mai Titi approached Liberty Kudakwashe Vazhura at Else Car Rental intending to hire an Audi Q5.
Vazhura and Mai Titi then entered into an agreement where she was supposed to pay US$770 per week and a lease agreement was signed.
She failed to make the weekly payments, which prompted Vazhura to order her to return the car.
Vazhura then reported the matter to Rhodesville Police Station.
The car was recovered from Mhuka’s place of residence where Mai Titi had surrendered it as collateral.
In the fraud case, Mai TT was remanded to April 20 while the theft of trust property matter was remanded to March 21.
She was granted free bail on both charges.
More: <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Mai TT Arrested For Fraud, Theft Of Trust Property

The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) on Thursday arrested National Social Security (NSSA) acting chief executive Charles Shava for fraud involving $12 246 571,48.
Shava allegedly altered a board resolution that had rejected the proposed allowances for four NSSA doctors.
It is alleged that Shava caused the human resources manager to pay the allowances without approval, claiming the board had approved the allowances.
He was taken to Avondale Police Station where he was detained pending his court appearance on Friday.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

NSSA Acting CEO Charles Shava Arrested On Fraud Allegations

Former Cabinet Minister Ignatius Chombo, who was being charged with fraud, is now a free man after the State withdrew the charges against him on Wednesday, 01 March 2023.
Chombo was accused of misappropriating a $14 billion Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe Capital Expenditure loan which was meant to purchase farm equipment, reported <a href="https://www.herald.co.zw/chombo-charges-withdrawn/">The Herald</a>.
The charges were withdrawn before plea when he appeared before Harare Regional Magistrate Stanford Mambanje.
The former Finance Minister was being accused of having misappropriated the loan he acquired under the RBZ Other Crops and Livestock extended to him between October 2005 and January 2006.
In withdrawing the charges, the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) said investigations revealed that Chombo used the money as per the loan requirements.
More <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a>

Chombo Fraud Charges Withdrawn

Former University of Zimbabwe (UZ) vice chancellor Levi Nyagura has been removed from remand in a case he was facing numerous counts of fraud, reported <a href="https://www.newzimbabwe.com/former-uz-vice-chancellor-cleared-of-fraud/">NewZimbabwe.com</a>.
Nyagura was jointly charged with UZ top officials, Lazarus Mabvira and James Chipendo.
The trio was removed from remand by Harare magistrate Dennis Mangosi who ruled that the State had failed to prosecute them since 2018.
The magistrate said there was no reason to keep Nyagura and his co-accused on remand when it was not clear when their trial shall commence.
He ordered prosecutors to continue by way of summons.
Allegations were that sometime between 2015 and 2018, the trio connived on various occasions to prejudice UZ through the “dubious” awarding of tenders.
Allegations were that on 23 August 2015, three companies, namely Frenzy Investments, Tynwald Sawmills and Bright Tree Cutters, responded to Mabvira’s request for quotations to cut 5 trees in front of the northern wing of Manfred Hodson compound.
On 6 November 2015, Mabvira allegedly connived with Nyagura and awarded the services to Tynwald Sawmills without soliciting for quotations from at least three competitive bidders.
UZ allegedly paid US$9 950 to Tynwald Sawmills to cut down five trees at the institution.
However, there was neither a security check nor a storekeeper’s signature to confirm that the services were rendered.
Prosecutors further alleged that Frenzy Investments and Tynwald Sawmills are owned by the same directors, while Bright Tree Cutter is not registered.

Former UZ Vice Chancellor Off The Hook In Numerous Fraud Charges

The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP)’s Commercial Crimes Unit arrested two more suspects in the Rusape Town Council stands corruption scandal.
Some senior employees in the local authority’s housing department had already been nabbed over the scandal.
Some Rusape Town Council staff members and their associates allegedly defrauded the local authority and individuals of over US$500 000 through illegal residential stands deals.
The <a href="https://www.manicapost.co.zw/rusape-stands-racket-sucks-two-more/">Manica Post</a> reported that last week, Criminal Investigations Department (CID) officers arrested two former interns who were allegedly working with former housing clerk, Jacob Chiraswa, who is on the run.
The trio allegedly duped two individuals of US$18 000 after fraudulently selling them the local authority’s stands.
The two suspects, Simbarashe Machemedze (27) and Tafadzwa Nyakuwanikwa (27) appeared separately before Rusape magistrate, Annie Ndiraya.
They were granted $50 000 bail each and remanded to 6 March.
Prosecutor, Marlon Makamba, alleged that Machemedze, working in cahoots with Chiraswa, sold a residential stand to Simbarashe Matunga after misleading him that it belonged to him (Machemedze). Said the prosecutor:
<blockquote>
Sometime in December 2021, Mr Matunga was looking for a residential stand in Rusape and got information that Machemedze was selling a stand.
When Mr Matunga approached him, Machemedze told him that he was selling his stand along Nyanga Drive in Rusape.
Machemedze allowed Mr Matunga to view the stand and asked for US$10 500 for it. 
Machemedze told Mr Matunga that he would facilitate the change of ownership of the said property once the whole amount was paid.
Machemedze then connived with Jacob Chiraswa and manipulated the Rusape Town Council’s filling system.
The two registered the stand into the complainant’s name to make Mr Matunga believe that the transaction was genuine.
</blockquote>
The matter only came to light when Matunga was about to develop the stand and was told that the stand was fraudulently transferred into his name.
He then reported the matter to the police leading to Machemedze’s arrest.
Makamba told the court that Nyakuwanikwa and Chiraswa allegedly used the same method to dupe Egypt Mashiri. He said:
<blockquote>
Sometime in April 2021, Nyakuwanikwa connived with Chiraswa to defraud unsuspecting home-seekers.
Chiraswa identified Stand Number 4184, Crocodile, which was among stands reserved for the council.
Nyakuwanikwa approached Mr Mashiri and advised him that Rusape Town Council was selling the said stand for US$8 000. 
Nyakuwanikwa told Mr Mashiri that the stand would be transferred into the buyer’s name immediately after the payment of the purchase price.
The complainant sourced US$7 500 from his South Africa-based brother, Mr Misheck Mashiri.
He supplied his brother’s details to the Nyakuwanikwa who then took them to Chiraswa who fraudulently changed the stand details in the council’s system into Mr Misheck Mashiri’s name.
Nyakuwanikwa and Chiraswa did not issue a receipt to Mr Mashiri and converted the money to their own use. Mr Mashiri began to construct a house on the stand.
He approached Rusape Town Council for the third stage approval of his proposed house and that is when he was advised to stop any further developments since the stand had been fraudulently issued.
</blockquote>

Two Interns Implicated In Rusape Residential Stands Corruption Scandal

Gokwe-Nembudziya MP, Justice Mayor Wadyajena (ZANU PF), and his co-accused who were facing fraud charges among other allegations have been freed after the court granted their application for refusal of further remand.
Wadyajena, COTTCO bosses Pius Manamike, Maxmore Njanji, Chiedza Danha and Fortunate Molai were jointly appearing in court on fraud, money laundering, and concealing a transaction from a principal charges.
They were accused of embezzling funds meant for acquiring bale cables and buying trucks.
Wadyajena’s Mayor Logistics and Danha’s Pierpoint Moncroix were also being charged.
Speaking to <a href="https://zero.pindula.co.zw/">Pindula News</a> after the court ruling on Monday, 06 February, Wadyajena’s lawyer, Oliver Marwa, said his client is now a free man. He said:
<blockquote>
Once an accused person is no longer in remand, that case is complete for the purposes of the records and there is no longer a fetter on the accused’s right to liberty. They can do as they please, and they can have their passport back.
They can, if they so wish, withdraw their bail recognizance or the money that they deposited for bail with the clerk of court. Essentially, they are free individuals henceforth.
</blockquote>

Wadyajena, COTTCO Managers Removed From Remand

A Chegutu man’s push for the Judicial Service Commission (JSC) to investigate Justice Tendai Uchena for alleged misconduct has failed.
The man, Shingirai Dendera, claims Justice Uchena fraudulently released suspects who reportedly killed a Chegutu man at a farm in Mandalay Park for alleged maize theft in 2003.
Dendera is a brother to the now-deceased Tambudzai. He claims his brother’s alleged killers were released before the close of the State case, 19 years ago.
The accused in the matter, Fredrick Ngombe, a Mandalay Park farmer, Tonderai Murehwa, Fungai Manyumwa and Amon Terrence stood trial in 2007 on a murder charge at the High Court under file number CR343-4/07/2003, but were released before finalisation of the matter.
On 25 October 2022, Dendera wrote to the JSC demanding that they investigate Justice Uchena over alleged fraudulent conduct. The letter reads in part:
<blockquote>
My complaint is, therefore, against Justice Uchena who was the trial judge.
Mr Muveza, who consented on behalf of the State, was not even the trial prosecutor.
</blockquote>
In response, JSC secretary Bianca Makwande said their investigations established that procedures were correctly followed in granting the suspects bail. Makwande wrote on 18 November 2022:
<blockquote>
The Office of the Registrar is now engaging the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) with a view to ensure the finalisation of the matter.
Through our engagements with the NPA, we noted that the accused persons were granted bail.
You may be aware that bail is a constitutionally guaranteed right to an accused person, especially if the court considers accused persons as proper candidates for bail.
It was also brought to our attention that you had previously raised the same issues with them, which issues were adequately dealt with.
We would, therefore, advise that you also engage the NPA and the police from your end to ensure the finalisation of the matter.
</blockquote>
Dendera told NewsDay that the JSC was being protective of the judge’s alleged corrupt conduct. | <a href="https://www.newsday.co.zw/local-news/article/200006793/attempt-to-corner-top-judge-hits-brick-wall">NewsDay</a>

Chegutu Man Petitions JSC To Probe Top Judge

Police have arrested four suspects for fraud and cybercrime after they allegedly stole NetOne airtime worth more than ZWL$560 million from the telecoms company.
National police spokesperson Assistant Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police detectives worked with the NetOne Loss Control and Fraud Management Unit to nab the suspects. Said Asst Comm Nyathi:
<blockquote>
The Zimbabwe Republic Police confirms the arrest of Primrose Maireti (32), James Mwanza (35), Kumbulani Nyapfumbi (30) and Simbarashe Mandimutsira (27) for allegedly stealing pin-less credit airtime from NetOne Cellular (Private) Limited and then sell it at a higher discount than the company to dealers.
Police detectives teamed up with NetOne Loss Control and Fraud Management Unit to track the suspects leading to the arrest of James Mwanza.
Checks made confirmed that James Mwanza received ZWL50 000 000.00 worth of pin-less airtime from the deal. He implicated Primrose Maireti and others.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has established that a total of ZWL565 999 964.00 worth of airtime was stolen from 3rd December 2022 to 19th January 2023. NetOne employees were sharing the loot with the airtime dealers.
Police has since recovered a Honda Fit motor vehicle registration number AFW 6813 from Kumbulani Nyapfumbi, which was bought through the loot.
Investigations have also revealed that he bought a residential stand for USD11 000.00 and another Honda Fit vehicle chassis number GE6-1744428 for USD3 971.00. The vehicle is on its way from Japan.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police will ensure that company employees and their accomplices face the full wrath of the law for fraudulent activities.
</blockquote>

Corruption Latest News

Latest Jobs