Zvikomborero Parafini

A 33-year-old Harare woman has appeared in court on charges of duping a prospective cattle buyer of US$8 500 in a deal involving 10 heifers and a bull.

Perseverance Gambiza was arrested on September 2.

Gambiza is facing fraud charges, alternatively theft of trust property, after allegedly receiving payment for the cattle but failing to deliver them.

According to the State, the deal began on February 2 this year when the buyer came across a Facebook advertisement in which Gambiza was allegedly selling 11 cattle for US$9 550.

She contacted Gambiza using the mobile number provided in the advertisement and expressed interest in buying the livestock.

Gambiza allegedly directed her to a farm in Banket, where she and her husband viewed the cattle.

After viewing the livestock, the woman allegedly agreed to purchase 10 heifers and one bull for US$8 500 and subsequently made payment.

The State alleges that when the buyer later contacted Gambiza in August to arrange collection of the cattle, she allegedly gave excuses, indicating she was not available.

At other times, Gambiza would not answer calls.

Efforts to have the cattle delivered were allegedly unsuccessful, prompting the buyer to demand either the livestock or a refund.

Gambiza allegedly failed to provide either. The State says the entire US$8 500 was lost and nothing was recovered.

Police investigations allegedly established that more than three witnesses linked Gambiza to the transaction.

The State also intends to rely on WhatsApp messages exchanged between Gambiza and the buyer as well as proof of payment as part of its evidence.

Gambiza was arrested on September 2.