Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
Court Reporter
A 44-YEAR-OLD man appeared in court yesterday facing allegations of defrauding a prospective property buyer of US$15 000 in a botched Belvedere residential stand deal.
Tendai Sithole appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Tapiwa Kuhudzai and was remanded in custody to today for bail consideration.
Ms Chipo Muvhamba prosecuted.
The State alleges that in July 2022, Sithole was introduced to the complainant through a relative as a person selling a residential stand.
He allegedly offered Stand Number 19024, Belvedere, measuring about 2 000 square metres, for US$30 000, claiming it was under a Harare City Council cession arrangement.
On July 27, 2022, the complainant allegedly paid Sithole US$15 000 as a deposit, with the two signing an agreement acknowledging the payment.
The alleged fraud came to light in 2024 when the area where the stand was located was demolished by the City of Harare.
The State alleges that the complainant lost the entire US$15 000, with nothing recovered.
Police are opposing bail, alleging that Sithole had been evading arrest and that a warrant of apprehension had been issued against him.
Investigating officer Detective Sergeant Marllory Mazorodze told the court that police had unsuccessfully searched for Sithole at several addresses.
She further alleged that Sithole had been attempting to negotiate an out-of-court settlement with the complainant, which police said could result in interference with witnesses.
The State is, therefore, opposing his release on bail.
