Man in Court Over $120,000 Fraud

Munyaradzi Mashiri

Zim Now Court Correspondent

A suspected fraudster has been arraigned at the Harare Magistrates' Court for allegedly participating in a US$120,000 fraud scheme.

Marko Gaka appeared before the court, facing charges of theft of trust property. He was granted bail set at $500 and is scheduled to reappear in court on January 28, 2025.

The complainant in this case is Zakir H Motola Investments Private Limited, represented by Ibrahim Kabwe Mwamba, a director of the company. Zakir H Motola Investments is involved in the export of goods, including biscuits and cornflakes, from Zambia to Zimbabwe.

According to the State, represented by prosecutor Anesu Chirenje, Gaka is accused of working with Gamuchirai Grant Machakaire to deceive Zakir H Motola Investments. The two allegedly approached the company, claiming they had clients interested in purchasing its products.

In response, the company entrusted them with three truckloads of biscuits and cornflakes, valued at US$120,000, under an agreement that payment would be made upon delivery.

However, after receiving payments from clients, Gaka and Machakaire reportedly failed to remit the funds to the company.

To cover up their actions, they allegedly sent a fraudulent proof of payment to Zakir H Motola Investments using the name Mickokays Private Limited.

A police report was subsequently filed, uncovering a total loss of US$120,000, with only US$39,000 recovered so far. Machakaire, who is implicated in the scheme, is already on remand and appeared in court last month.