Former police officer in court over US$173 500 theft

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A FORMER police officer has appeared in court for allegedly stealing US$173 500, which was meant to buy a commercial property for his ex-wife.

Tavonga Gwabva (41), from Matsheumhlope suburb in Bulawayo, appeared before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate, Mr Taurai Manuwere, facing a theft charge.

He pleaded not guilty and was represented by his lawyers – Advocate Professor Welshman Ncube and Mr Zibusiso Ncube.

The matter was postponed to 02 April for continuation of trial. The State, represented by public prosecutor, Ms Nomthandazo Mafu, told the court that the complainant, Ms Nyengeterai Denga and the accused were in a relationship.
Gwabva was employed by the complainant to conduct company business on her behalf.

“On 7 December 2022 the complainant, in the company of the accused, proceeded to Safe-Guard Security Offices to open a security carriage store to keep funds meant to purchase a commercial property for Denga,” said Ms Mafu.

“After the contract was drafted and signed, the pair had access to the safe deposit box, which was leased to Epic-Zone Boutique. Denga would send the accused deposit money raised from sales.

“On 5 April 2023 Denga received information that a commercial property she had identified was now ready for sale and a contract was drafted for her to sign upon payment of the deposit and other legal fees,” said Ms Mafu.

The court heard that on 6 April 2023 Ms Denga and the accused went to Safe-Guard where they withdrew all the cash amounting to US$269 000.
Ms Mafu told the court that on the same day Denga passed through her boutique and took cash amounting to US$500.

“When they were in possession of the cash and waiting to sign the said agreement, the complainant was informed that the sale could not proceed as there were some issues with the sellers,” she said.

Both the complainant and the accused then went back to Safe-Guard where they returned the cash now amounting to US$273 500.

“On 11 April 2023, shortly after 2pm, the accused proceeded to Safe-Guard offices where he withdrew cash without the consent and knowledge of the complainant.

“Later on the same date, at around 4pm, the accused returned and withdrew more cash without the consent and knowledge of the complainant,” said Ms Mafu.

The offence was discovered a month later after the accused had left the country. Upon discovering the offence, the complainant made a formal police report of US$173 500, which had been stolen, and nothing was recovered.