Online Reporter
Trish Mukwazo, [email protected]
A 39-year-old man employed as a taxi driver, who allegedly disappeared with his employer’s vehicle only for it to be found burnt, has appeared in court.
Talent Dube of Nkulumane suburb was employed by Ms Getrude Nxumalo as a taxi driver and would remit daily earnings. In October last year, Dube borrowed the car under the pretext of transporting a sick friend to Emganwini suburb, to which his employer agreed.
However, Dube subsequently became evasive and stopped responding to Ms Nxumalo’s requests to return the vehicle.
Appearing before Bulawayo Regional Magistrate Ms Sibonginkosi Mnkandla on charges of theft of trust property, Dube denied the allegations. He claimed he was kidnapped and later escaped, leaving the car with his abductors. Dube also stated he reported the incident to police. The trial continues this Friday, 16 May.
Prosecutor Ms Nomthandazo Mafu said the complainant and accused, while not related, are neighbours. She stated that on 15 October last year at around 9 AM, Dube requested use of the complainant’s silver-grey Mazda Demio to transport his sick friend, promising to return it the following day.
“The accused person subsequently became evasive and stopped responding to the complainant’s requests to return her vehicle,” said Ms Mafu. “A police report was filed, leading to the recovery of the vehicle in a burnt state.”
The court heard the vehicle was valued at US$5,000. Ms Nxumalo testified that the offence had severely affected her, both emotionally and financially, as the car was her source of income. She revealed the stress had caused sleepless nights, forcing her to resort to alcohol to sleep.
