Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
A HARARE man is counting his losses after he was hoodwinked into investing money, which he had set aside for lobola, into a shady investment scheme.
Albert Chikuni invested US$3,200 into the scheme.
He had set the money aside for lobola.
Fanuel Madzvamuse, who is the suspect, appeared in court yesterday.
The court heard that Chikuni met Madzvamuse at a garage at number 84B Seke Road, Harare, where both were having their cars repaired.
During their lengthy conversation, Madzvamuse learnt that Chikuni intended to pay lobola on December 28, last year.
Madzvamuse, according to the State, devised a plan to defraud Chikuni and he allegedly falsely claimed to be a licensed businessman engaged in charcoal mining.
He produced invoices purporting to show deliveries made to Irvine’s.
On December 15, last year, Madzvamuse allegedly misrepresented to Chikuni that, if he invested through him, he would earn a return within one week, ranging between 8 percent and 11 percent, depending on the investment amount.
Acting on the misrepresentation, Chikuni handed over US$3,200 and expected to receive US$5,600 on December 21.
However, Madzvamuse converted the money to his own use.
After several follow-ups, he became evasive, prompting Chikuni to file a police report.
