Sabi Mine sued overdue debt

Thulani Ndlovu
ZVISHAVANE-BASED gold mine, Sabi Mine, is being sued by Nissan Clover-Leaf Motors for failing to pay a debt of more than $4 000 in fees for mechanical work rendered to the struggling company.
The gold mine, a subsidiary of the Zimbabwe Mining Development Corporation (ZMDC), had its property attached by the Zvishavane Deputy Sheriff in April this year over a debt owed to another creditor, a construction company, Drummond Transport and Quarry Construction.

The Deputy Sheriff in April attached a company bus, two Toyota Hilux vehicles, a Nissan Hardbody truck and a Nissan UD to settle the debt the gold miner owed Drummond Transport and Quarry Construction for services rendered.

Through court papers Nissan Clover, allege that they had been providing professional mechanical services for the gold mine fleet over a lengthy period of time.

Furthermore, in 2008 they carried an engine overhaul of Nissan motor vehicle registration number ABG 8971 belonging to Sabi Mine.
However, it is alleged that the gold miner failed to pay the full amount owed to the company for the repair of the Nissan car engine.

“Defendant was invoiced $15 240 and only paid $11 030 leaving an outstanding balance of $4 121 which has not been paid to date and was due upon demand,” said Nissan Clover through court papers.

“Despite numerous demands and requests to settle the debt the defendant has refused, denied or neglected to do so.”
In addition, Sabi Mine was warned to respond to the summons within seven working days from the date of their issue and failure to do so would be presumed as acceptance of the claim of $4 000. The gold mine was served summons on July 14, by the Zvishavane deputy sheriff.

“In default of your doing so you will be held to have admitted to the claim against you in your absence, but that on payment of the said claim and costs to me within the said time judgment will be given against you herein,” said Nissan Clover through summon court papers.

“An order for the interest on the sum of $4 000 at the rate of five percent per annum from the time of issue of summons to the time of full payment is further sought.”