admin
Court Reporter
Three Harare men who allegedly defrauded a tyre dealer of 37 tyres worth US$10 780 appeared before a Mbare magistrate last week facing fraud charges. Godfrey Mukovoni (33), Francis Chuma (35) and Fungai Bruno Takawira (43) of Bruno Enterprises in the Willowvale industrial area were jointly charged with fraud while a fourth suspect, Chester Nathan Mhende, is still on the run. Andrew Matika of DEPLAAT Investments at number 9 Lobengula Close in Southerton was allegedly defrauded of the tyres after the four failed to honour their promise to pay him US$10 780 upon delivery.
Prosecutor Ephraim Zinyandu told the court that on March 22, the four connived and ordered 25 tyres for heavy vehicles and 12 for light vehicles with a value of US$10 780 from DEPLAAT.
The four lied to the supplier that the consignment would be paid on delivery. Acting upon the misrepresentation, Matika then delivered the tyres to Bruno Enterprises where he handed over them to Mukovoni, Chuma and Mhende. Upon delivery, the supplier issued an invoice and agreed to off-load the tyres after he was told to wait for Takawira who was reported to be on his way from the bank. After waiting for some hours in vain he decided to buy some lunch from a nearby food outlet only to return and find a deserted place. It is alleged that the four fled with the tyres to an unknown destination.
Matika later reported the matter to the police leading to the arrest of the three men. The three were being represented by Machaya and Associates.
Magistrate Ms Precious Muzondo deferred the matter to Monday next week.
Online Reporter