Online Reporter
George Maponga in MASVINGO
TWO prominent Masvingo land barons have been arrested for illegally selling housing and business stands with an estimated value of US$1 million on land belonging to a private developer at Victoria Ranch.
Ephraim Gwanongodza (59) and Godhati Dunira (57), who are directors of Rajavik Investments, are facing charges of illegally selling stands on 50 hectares under the remainder of Victoria Ranch owned by Shine Plus.
The duo were initially remanded in custody when they appeared before Masvingo magistrate Mr Tafadzwa Miti, facing fraud charges.
They are expected to return to court today to apply for bail at the Masvingo regional court.
Dunira and Gwanongodza, as directors of Rajavik, allegedly connived and created a layout plan for 50 hectares of land of the remainder of Victoria Ranch in 2022.
The duo allegedly started selling business and residential stands at prices ranging from US$2 000 to US$7 000.
The land in question had been allocated to Shine Plus in 2019 by the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.
The State is opposing bail because the two will abscond and also interfere with state witnesses.
Bongani Ndlovu