Online Reporter
Prosper Dembedza
Herald Correspondent
A 42-year-old pastor with Christ Embassy has appeared in court on allegations of defrauding his fellow workmate of US$7 200 in a botched vehicle import deal.
Kudakwashe Singizi was facing fraud charges when he appeared before a Harare magistrate.
The complainant is Mukanhairi Ropafadzo.
The complainant and Singizi are not related, but they were using the same shop at the time the offence was committed.
The State, led by Mr Takudzwa Mutyavaviri, told the court that on July 16, 2025 and at Shasha Mall, at the corner of Kwame Nkrumah Avenue and Leopold Takawira Street in Harare, Singizi misrepresented to the complainant that he was an agent for BE-forward and that he could facilitate the purchasing and importing of a motor vehicle on her behalf.
Acting on this misrepresentation, the complainant informed Singizi that she wanted to purchase a Honda Vezel.
The court heard that Singizi did the calculations and advised the complainant that he required US$7 200 to import and deliver the said motor vehicle.
The complainant then paid the accused US$7 200 in cash and Singizi promised to deliver the motor vehicle within three months.
Upon the lapse of the agreed period, the complainant demanded delivery of the motor vehicle and Singizi became evasive, giving unclear and inconsistent explanations. He failed to deliver the motor vehicle as promised.
The court heard that Singizi later promised to refund the money but failed to make any repayment.
The complainant reported the matter to the police and investigations were made, leading to his arrest.
The complainant suffered financial prejudice of US$7 200, and nothing was recovered.
