Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Zimeye
Published on 2024-04-07 01:31:59
A couple has recently been charged with defrauding Sunday Chifamba, the owner of Pandhari Hotel, leading to a significant loss of US$90,000. Usedia Zhuwaneti and Edzayi Arufaneti appeared before Harare magistrate Ethel Chichera, with Shepard Makonde representing them in court.
The prosecution, led by State prosecutor Zebediah Bofu, presented a case outlining a premeditated scheme devised by the accused couple back in 2014. The couple posed as shareholders of Anglovaal Investments Private Limited and claimed ownership of stand number 761 Glen Lorne Township of 41 of Glen Lorne under Deed of Transfer 9391/98. This false claim was used as a basis for their fraudulent dealings with Mr. Chifamba.
In March 2014, Chifamba was deceived by the Zhuwanetis into purchasing stand number 761 Glen Lorne for US$90,000. The property’s value was misrepresented as equivalent to 200 shares in Anglovaal Investments (Pvt) Ltd, influencing Chifamba’s decision to proceed with the transaction.
The fraudulent nature of the deal came to light in 2016 when Eelco Alexis Walraven, the actual owner of the property, emerged. Walraven had sold the property to Anglovaal Investments in 2011 but reclaimed it due to non-payment issues. This led to a legal battle that resulted in a High Court order for Chifamba’s eviction from the property in June 2019, exposing the fraudulent transaction orchestrated by the Zhuwanetis.
As a result of the fraudulent activities of the couple, Mr. Chifamba suffered a significant financial loss of US$90,000 with no recoveries reported. This case serves as a reminder of the complex challenges in property transactions and the devastating impact of fraud on innocent parties.
The legal proceedings against Usedia Zhuwaneti and Edzayi Arufaneti highlight the importance of due diligence in financial and property transactions to prevent falling victim to fraud. The outcome of the case will be closely monitored for its implications on property law enforcement and fraud prevention measures in Zimbabwe.
In conclusion, the case of the fraudulent couple and their deceitful actions serve as a cautionary tale for individuals engaging in property transactions. It underscores the need for thorough investigations and verification of information to ensure the legitimacy of deals and prevent financial losses. Vigilance and adherence to legal processes are crucial in safeguarding one’s interests in any business dealings.
Read the original article on The Zimbabwe Eye
