Money changer robbed

Danisa Masuku

THE risks of the black market business became a harsh reality for Wisdom Muleya (37), a money changer popularly known as usiphatheleni, when he was robbed at gunpoint of US$3 500, P22 000, and R42 000.

While Muleya was at his usual spot near Tredgold Building, which houses the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Courts, he received a phone call from a friend who wanted to conduct a transaction.

As Muleya was finishing this transaction, a car pulled up and stopped near his friend’s vehicle. A man got out of the car and approached him.

The man allegedly told Muleya that he had P3 500 and wanted to exchange it for US dollars, explaining that he had left the money in his car.

At that moment, nothing seemed amiss, and he took the bait, following the man to the car. He was told to get inside to complete the transaction, and he complied.

A source close to the investigation said: “As soon as he got inside the car, the man pulled a pistol from under the passenger seat, pointed it at his head, and instructed him not to scream. He didn’t. They drove to Jason Moyo Street, heading towards Connaught Avenue, before stopping at the corner of Connaught Avenue and Jason Moyo Street. They instructed him to hand over the money, and he gave them US$3 500, P22 000, and R42 000.”

After that, they sped off in their getaway car.

Muleya reported the incident at Bulawayo Central Police Station. Bulawayo acting police spokesperson Assistant Inspector Nomalanga Msebele could not be reached for comment.

Contacted for comment, Muleya only said: “I cannot comment because the matter is before the police. I don’t want to jeopardise the investigation.”