Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
A WORKER at Ingutsheni Central Hospital who cashed in on a desperate family’s search for a job has been sent to prison after falsely claiming he could secure employment for his workmate’s younger brother.
Amukela Nkiwane (54) was convicted of fraud by the Bulawayo Magistrates’ Court after siphoning US$500 from his workmate.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), the offence was committed in January this year.
Nkiwane, who worked at Ingutsheni Hospital, approached his co-worker, Simango Khanyisa (41), claiming he had the power to secure a job for her younger brother.
Believing the offer was genuine, Khanyisa handed over US$500 in the hope that her sibling would finally land employment.
However, the promised job never materialised.
The court heard that the victim later discovered that Nkiwane had no authority whatsoever to offer jobs.
Realising she had been conned, she reported the matter to the police, leading to Nkiwane’s arrest.
He was prosecuted and found guilty of fraud.
The court sentenced Nkiwane to 30 months in prison.
However, six months of the sentence were suspended for five years on condition that he does not commit another offence involving fraud during that period.
A further four months were suspended on condition that he pays back the stolen US$500 to the complainant as restitution.
He will therefore serve an effective 20-month jail term.
The National Prosecuting Authority warned members of the public to be on high alert against bogus employment offers, saying fraudsters often target desperate job seekers and their families.
Authorities urged Zimbabweans never to pay money to individuals claiming they can secure employment unless the recruitment process has been verified with the relevant institution.
The NPAZ said obtaining money or property through false pretences is a serious criminal offence that carries stiff penalties.
