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Zvikomborero Parafini
A SUSPECTED bogus land baron allegedly misled a woman into believing he had properties in prime neighbourhoods of Harare before duping her of US$74 000.
The daring land baron even reimbursed the woman US$26 000 after she had paid US$100 000.
Tawanda Denford Bondamakara 40, appeared before magistrate Dennis Mangosi.
The complainant is Catherine Masaka.
The court heard that towards the end of 2021, Masaka who was looking for properties to buy and was introduced to Bondamakara by her brother, Gerald Chekenya.
Bondamakara allegedly then misrepresented to Masaka that he owns several residential and commercial stands in Borrowdale and Highlands which were up for sale.
Acting upon the misrepresentation, Masaka visited the properties in Borrowdale and Highlands
Masaka chose three properties, a piece of land covering 2500 square metres and two pieces of land covering 2300 square metres and 2200 square metres adjacent to each other, in Highlands.
Bondamakara made her believe that the stands were on demand and could be sold anytime.
Acting upon the misrepresentation Masaka paid US$4000 as commitment fee.
On March 16, 2022, Masaka allegedly paid US$100 000 as payment for the three properties, through a bank transfer from her United Nations Federal Credit Union account to Wibes Mbiya, who is Bondamakara’s cousin.
Bondamakara acknowledged having received the money through a WhatsApp message.
Bondamakara then refunded US$26 000 citing that there was need to finish up the Highlands project first before embarking on other areas.
Masaka made follow ups with Bondamakara with regards to progress made in terms of the processing of the title deeds and other paper work related to the properties but he would give numerous excuses for the delay.
Bondamakara was released on US$500 bail and was ordered to report once a week to the police.
Thomas Chanakira appeared for the State.
Mathew Masinge
Online Reporter