Online Reporter
Peter Matika
A BULAWAYO conman who posed as a medical doctor and duped the public will be sentenced today.
Prosper Vanhuvaone, the bogus medic, was yesterday convicted of three counts of fraud and one of impersonation after parading himself as a qualified health professional.
The man of many names pretended to be a doctor and treated patients at Mpilo Central Hospital, donning a white coat, without the knowledge of authorities at the institution.
Today, all eyes are on Magistrate Eva Matura, who will decide whether the fake doc walks free or heads to jail.
In a desperate bid to avoid jail, Vanhuvaone begged for leniency, claiming he had only taken a shortcut because of pressure from his peers who had graduated ahead of him.
“I’ve learnt my lesson. I’ll reform and finish my medical studies,” he pleaded. “I’m a family man. I have a house in the suburbs, a car, US$1 800 in savings, and I run a private company.”
However, State Prosecutor Samuel Mpofu painted a different picture.
“He’s a pathological liar and danger to society. He previously used the name Prosper Mpofu. Now he’s Prosper Vanhuvaone. How many more names does he have?” blasted Mpofu.
“This isn’t just fraud. He shattered public trust in our health system. Mpilo Hospital’s name was dragged through the mud. A jail term is the only fitting punishment.”
Vanhuvaone’s case has shaken the public, with many shocked at how far he went in his deception. The sentencing is expected to send a strong message to others who dare to play doctor.
More to follow…
derick.khumalo