Deputy Ambassador Claims Fraud in Vehicle Case

Zimbabwe’s Deputy Ambassador to Namibia, Cathrine Mauswa, has accused a Marondera Municipality accountant, Tinashe Mungwena (38), of fraudulently obtaining a US$40,000 vehicle. The case highlights the importance of proper documentation during financial transactions to avoid misunderstandings and potential legal disputes.

Mungwena appeared before Harare regional magistrate Donald Ndirowei on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, facing charges of fraud. The magistrate remanded him out of custody to June 11th for routine remand.

According to court documents, the issue began in 2022 when Mauswa’s late husband, Never Besa, purchased a Toyota Fortuner from High Range Land Developers in Harare. The prosecution alleges that Mungwena borrowed the vehicle from Besa at some point but never returned it.

Following Besa’s tragic death in a car accident on March 7th, 2024, Mauswa requested the vehicle’s return as part of her husband’s estate. However, Mungwena allegedly claimed to have bought the car from Besa on September 8th, 2023, for US$40,000. Despite his claims of partial payment, Mungwena could not produce a sales agreement.

Unable to resolve the situation, Mauswa reported the matter to the police. Mungwena eventually surrendered himself and the vehicle to authorities on April 20th, 2024.

The case underscores the need for clear and documented financial transactions, especially when dealing with significant sums. Formal agreements protect both parties involved and provide legal recourse in case of disputes.