Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-02-19 13:56:14
The Law Society of Zimbabwe is currently investigating various reports of professional misconduct by lawyer Zibusiso Charles Ncube, who operates the Ncube & Partners law firm based in Bulawayo and Victoria Falls. The investigations stem from 38 collaborative projects initiated with Sithule Tshuma since 2020, resulting in a substantial $25 million accumulation from victims of the Qoki scam. These projects were conducted under the guise of Zindlovukazi and operated through a WhatsApp platform, primarily overseen by Sithule Tshuma.
Recent developments have put the directors of Qoki Zindlovukazi, namely Sithule Tshuma, Karen Kumalo, Bridget Dube, Nompilo Moyo, and their lawyer Zibusiso Charles Ncube, under intense scrutiny from various state departments, including the Police, Anti-Corruption agencies, and the Law Society of Zimbabwe. The investigations also center around professional misconduct and criminal concerns against Zibusiso, ranging from the embezzlement of Capital Gains Tax to the fraudulent production of Agreements of Sale and Title Deeds.
Multiple complaints of fraud have been received by the Law Society, Police, and Anti-corruption agencies from victims of both Zibusiso and Qoki. Additionally, individuals not directly involved with Qoki have also reported instances of financial misconduct by Zibusiso. One particular case involves the Airport Road 55-hectare plots, where Zibusiso held multiple roles, representing both the seller and the buyer in Conveyancing processes, as well as acting on behalf of investors/victims. Investigations revealed significant price disparities in this project, with Zibusiso charging victims Conveyancing fees based on inflated prices, leading to financial harm inflicted on unsuspecting individuals. Original copies of the Title Deeds are reportedly missing at both the Deed office and at Zibusiso’s Bulawayo office.
Despite numerous criminal investigations and complaints lodged with the Law Society since April 2023, Zibusiso has continued to operate his law firm, exposing the public to further risk of financial exploitation and misconduct. The ongoing investigation by the Law Society aims to hold accountable all individuals involved in these egregious acts and to safeguard the integrity of the legal profession in Zimbabwe.
The severity of the situation has led to public concern and calls for swift action to ensure that those responsible are held accountable for their actions. The exploitation of victims through fraudulent means is a serious offense, and the pursuit of justice is essential for restoring trust in the legal profession and preventing further harm to the public.
It is crucial for organizations and regulatory bodies to work together in addressing such cases to ensure that legal practitioners adhere to ethical standards and uphold the trust placed in them by the public. The outcome of the investigation will not only have legal implications but will also serve as an example of the consequences of professional misconduct within the legal profession. The Law Society’s dedication to investigating and addressing these matters is a vital step towards fostering transparency, accountability, and trust in the legal system.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
