Business partner duo in US$12K diesel scam

Zvikomborero Parafini

Two Harare business partners allegedly duped a top farmer of US$12 900 in a botched diesel deal and have appeared in court facing fraud charges.

The pair appeared before Harare regional magistrate Jessie Kufa. The State alleges that the complainant, Ross Murray, a farmer, was introduced to the two as fuel dealers who could facilitate the purchase and delivery of diesel for his company.

Sometime in February, Murray reportedly engaged the pair to supply diesel to his mine in South Africa.

It is alleged that Murray made a cash deposit of US$12 900 at NOCZIM (now NOIC) Msasa Depot into an account provided by the accused persons. A receipt was issued by Ross Murray Fuels confirming the transaction.On March 1, 2026, Murray travelled to the mine expecting delivery of the diesel, but it was not delivered. Instead, the pair allegedly began giving excuses, claiming their truck had been involved in an accident and demanding more money to facilitate delivery.

Murray reported the matter to the police, leading to the arrest of the accused persons at their residences. Nothing was recovered. The two were granted US$200 bail each.

Oscar Madhume prosecuted.