dyton mupawaenda
Mathew Masinge
HIGH Court Judge Pisirayi Kwenda has dismissed businessmen Mike Chimombe and Moses Mpofu’s bail appeal pending trial.
The duo have been incarcerated since June 26 for their first fraud case in which they are accused of misappropriating US$7 million from the Presidential Goats Scheme.
Chimombe and Mpofu are also facing similar charges in the second fraud case involving a US$9,2 million in which they stand accused of falsifying documents to bid for a City of Harare street lighting deal.
The businessmen also had their bail application thrown out after they dodged the magistrate court and applied for bail straight at the appeals court.
Justice Benjamin Chikowero ordered Chimombe and Mpofu to have their bail application heard by a magistrate first.
In denying the duo bail in their first fraud case, Justice Kwenda said the duo could not be admitted on bail.
“After reading documents and hearing arguments from both the State and defence counsel, It is ordered that the State’s objection to the hearing of this appeal against denial of bail is upheld.
“The appeal is therefore dismissed,” ruled Justice Kwenda.
The judge said his full written reasons for denying bail will be made available anytime soon.
Chimombe and Mpofu are now set for trial at the High Court on a continuous roll from October 1 to 4.
Online Reporter