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Tanaka Mrewa, Court Reporter
A ZIMBABWE Security Guards’ Union regional manager allegedly stole more than $14 000 from nine former security guards who were employed by Guardian Security.
A court heard how the unionist, who was in charge of the Matabeleland region, allegedly received $14 438 from Guardian Security on behalf of the company’s ex-workers but did not hand it over to them.
Aaron Mankolo (42) of Tshabalala suburb appeared before Bulawayo Provincial magistrate Mr Tinashe Tashaya facing theft charges.
He pleaded not guilty and was remanded to January 23 on $100 bail.
Prosecuting, Mr Nkathazo Dlodlo said the security guards’ contracts were terminated in March last year at a time when the company was in salaries’ arrears.
“The complainants engaged the accused person in his capacity as regional manager to represent them in negotiating for their salaries. On July 12, 2016, the Labour court granted an order that Guardian Security pays a total of $14 438 in four instalments,” said Mr Dlodlo.
“On July 21, $500 was deposited and two more $500 deposits were made on July 24 and 27. The last instalment was $13 000. Accused then received all the stated funds and was instructed to distribute them to the respective beneficiaries. He defied the instruction and converted the money to his own use.
Nothing was recovered.”
Mr Dlodlo said the matter came to light on Tuesday when the former security guards approached Guardian Security through the National Employment Council.
He said they were informed that all the money had been paid, leading to Mankolo’s arrest.
—@tannytkay.
Bongani Ndlovu
Online Reporter