Chronicle Editor
Sheronrose Mugombi,
Police in Bulawayo are investigating a case of fraud in which a 27-year-old woman from Paddonhurst was defrauded of a total of US$6,350 by an unscrupulous housing agent.
Jacob Rabatwa, who is employed as a housing agent, went to Upper Rangemore to show the unnamed complainant stands for sale on 21 June 2024.
The complainant selected a 250 square metre stand priced at US$6,250 and paid a US$1,400 cash deposit the next day. She subsequently made additional payments totalling US$4,950, and they signed a sales agreement for the stand.
In a statement, Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said that on 25 January, the complainant visited the stand she had purchased and discovered a foundation already dug there. A neighbour informed her that the stand actually belonged to someone in South Africa.
“After confirming with the real owner, she questioned the accused, who provided an unsatisfactory response. A police report was filed, but the accused has not yet been arrested. The total loss is US$6,350, with no recovery.”
“Police urge the public to verify the authenticity of agents before making transactions to avoid financial loss and to seek any information leading to the accused’s arrest,” said Inspector Msebele.
Online Reporter