Online Reporter
Zvikomborero Parafini
A CITY of Harare municipal police officer has appeared in court accused of duping a workmate of US$5 260 after allegedly claiming she had won US$40 000 through online betting but needed money to unlock the winnings.
Rumbidzai Chigara (37) appeared before Harare magistrate Mr Tapiwa Kuhudzai charged with fraud.
The State alleges that Chigara and the complainant worked together at Masvingo Rank in Mbare, where the complainant is employed as a cashier.
It is alleged that on August 6, Chigara visited her colleague at her home in Ruwa and told her that she had won US$40 000 through online betting games.
She allegedly claimed she could not access the purported winnings through EcoCash because she had reached her withdrawal limit and urgently needed US$5 260.
According to the State, Chigara allegedly promised to reimburse the money once her withdrawal limit was restored on September 1.
Believing the representations, the complainant allegedly handed her US$5 260. The State alleges that after September 1 passed without payment, Chigara began giving several excuses, prompting the complainant to report the matter to the police.
Detectives allegedly received information about Chigara’s whereabouts on September 29 and arrested her at her workplace.
Police further allege that during investigations, Chigara failed to produce evidence of the EcoCash balances she had claimed to possess.
Prosecutors are opposing bail, arguing that Chigara may interfere with witnesses because she works with the complainant and may commit further offences if released.
The complainant was prejudiced of US$5 260 and nothing has been recovered.
