Online Reporter
Freeman Razemba
Senior Reporter
A 30-YEAR-OLD man, Garikai Mtangandebvu has been jailed for theft by the Rusape Magistrates’ Court after spending money that was mistakenly deposited into his bank account.
Sometime in July 2025, Mtangandebvu, who works for a wholesale shop, received US$1 885,45 and ZiG 238 638,90, funds which were intended for another person with the same name.
Instead of notifying the bank or the rightful owner, he withdrew the money and used it for personal benefit.
When the legitimate recipient made a claim, the company discovered the error and reported the matter to the police.
Nothing was recovered from Mtangandebvu.
He was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment, of which six months were suspended on condition of good behaviour, 15 months were suspended on condition of full restitution to the complainant.
The remaining 15 months were suspended on condition that he perform 525 hours of community service.
The National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe has since reminded members of the public that they should verify sources of funds before they spend money received via bank accounts.
Name may be the same, but the bank account is not.