By Shingirai Vambe
Two Harare lawyers, Martin Murimirambewa (53) and Shakespear Karuwa (55), appeared before Magistrate Marehwanazvo Gofa on fraud charges involving US$500,000. They were granted US$100 bail each and remanded to September 3 for further investigations.
The complainant, Monoliser Investments (Pvt) Ltd, represented by Chamunorwa Matsika, alleges that the lawyers conspired with Frank Buyanga to transfer properties worth over US$500,000 without the company’s knowledge or consent.
According to the prosecution, Matsika borrowed US$30,000 from Buyanga in June 2009, using properties in Hurungwe as collateral. When Matsika attempted to repay the loan in November 2009, he discovered that Buyanga’s office had closed, and his phones were no longer reachable.
Matsika later discovered that the title deeds had been changed in favor of Hamilton Property Limited, leading him to initiate civil proceedings. In 2023, Matsika received summons for eviction, prompting him to report the matter to the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission.
Investigations revealed that the lawyers allegedly assisted Buyanga in obtaining a Capital Gains Tax Certificate using a forged company resolution and false contact information. The certificate was used to register the deeds of transfer, perpetuating the fraud.
The lawyers’ involvement in the alleged fraud has led to their appearance in court, where they will face charges of fraud and conspiracy. The case has been postponed to September 3 for further investigations.
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