Online Reporter
Prosper Dembedza
Herald Correspondent
Harare magistrate Mr Donald Ndirowei has set August 18 as the trial date for former Zanu PF youth leader Lewis Matutu and his four accomplices in a matter involving US$150 000 fraud.
Matutu is being jointly charged with Blessing Kusangaya, Tafadzwa Kusangaya, Muzimba Muhamba and Chikwasha Muhamba.
The court heard that sometime in 2018, Matutu allegedly connived with the quartet and hatched a plan to steal some shares from Shisib Investments, a mining company.
They allegedly prepared annual returns dated April 30, 2018, which were backdated from 2014, 2016 and 2017.
The accused forged the signatures of both the complainant and one Lyton Shumba, purporting that they had prepared the returns.
“The returns were filed at the Registrar of Companies, notifying the registrar that changes had been made on the shareholding structure and directorship of Shusib Investments,” said Prosecutor Mr Takudzwa Jambawu.
“The accused persons had allotted themselves shares in the company, and were now the majority shareholders.”
The offence came to light on September 30, 2024, when the complainant was informed by the Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority that they had been instructed by the accused persons to suspend all mining operations as shareholders had agreed to sell the mining claim.
“Using the illegally acquired shares, the accused attended an annual general meeting (AGM) on November 19, 2024, and removed the complainant from the directorship of his company. They also resolved to change the company address.”
The National Prosecuting Authority said the company suffered an actual prejudice of US$150 000 and nothing was recovered.
