adminZenzo Sibanda first defaulted court at the Western Commonage magistrates’ courts in 2001 and again defaulted at the Bulawayo magistrates’ courts twice after he had committed other offences.
On Wednesday night he was spotted at a city three star hotel and when he saw a detective following him he dashed into the toilet where he locked himself up.
The detective tried in vain to arrest him as he refused to open the door and reinforcements had to be called in. He was then arrested.
Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Mandlenkosi Moyo yesterday confirmed the arrest of Sibanda (44) and said he is in police custody and would appear in court soon.
Insp Moyo said Sibanda in 2001 allegedly defrauded a home seeker of ZW$226 868 and in 2008 he was allegedly given R7 450 by someone who wanted a stand and he said the money was enough to develop it once it had been purchased.
In 2010, Sibanda allegedly pretended to be an estate agent and that he could find someone a house to buy.
He was allegedly given $10 699 but failed to deliver.
Last year, Sibanda pretended to someone that he had connections within the Bulawayo City Council and could assist them have their housing plans processed.
Sibanda was allegedly given $699 but also failed to deliver.
Insp Moyo said police think there are more people who could have fallen prey to Sibanda and urged them to come forward and contact the officer-in-charge, Fraud Section on 09 77884 or 0712 915 380.
They can also contact Detective Constable Chipinda on 0773 288 903 or make a report at their nearest police station.
“We urge people to deal with reputable estate agents and avoid any deals with bogus people as they stand to lose their hard earned money,” said Insp Moyo.
Online Reporter
Bongani Ndlovu