Farmer Defrauded of Over US$27k by Fake CIO Agent

Zim Now Writer

A man pretending to be a Central Intelligence Organisation operative, Shepherd Mangoma, appeared in the Harare Magistrates Court on Friday to face charges of impersonation, fraud, and theft of trust property.

The charges stemmed from his fraudulent dealings with Kudakwashe Mbaura, a local farmer, whom he deceived with false promises of helping him secure a farm.

Mangoma, who claimed to work for the President’s department, even produced a fake identity card to gain Mbaura's trust. In August 2021, he convinced Mbaura that he could assist in acquiring a farm and instructed him to select a location, which Mbaura chose in the Grange area of Odzi, Manicaland. Mangoma then demanded US$450 as kickbacks for his supposed “bosses” who would facilitate the acquisition process. Trusting Mangoma’s false assurances, Mbaura handed over the money.

Over the next two years, Mangoma continued to exploit Mbaura, convincing him to make further payments for various expenses, including farming equipment, transport fees, tractor repairs, land officer fees, and even security for guards he claimed would be sent from Harare. He also solicited funds for ZANU PF officials assessing the farm, as well as a donation for the 2023 Zimbabwe Independence Day celebrations.

In total, Mbaura paid Mangoma US$27,724 and ZWL$66,000. At times, Mangoma had accomplices, Madondo and Obert Mpofu, collect the funds on his behalf. Despite Mbaura’s repeated requests for documentation to validate the arrangements, Mangoma continued to make empty promises.

When Mbaura demanded a refund, Mangoma allegedly threatened him with death. In February 2024, Mbaura was arrested in Mutare, and when he contacted Mangoma to inform him, the latter once again posed as an official from the President’s department.

He even offered to help Mbaura find a lawyer for his case, convincing him to pay US$900 for legal fees. However, Mangoma never engaged a lawyer and instead used the money for personal expenses.

Mbaura’s suspicions were confirmed when, on December 23, he discovered through social media that Mangoma had been arrested before for similar crimes. This prompted Mbaura to report the fraud to the police, leading to a referral to the CID’s PACU for further investigation.

Magistrate Ruth Moyo granted Mangoma bail set at US$300. However, the case continues to unfold as authorities track down his accomplices, Madondo and Obert Mpofu, who remain at large.