Counter accusations mark Karoro’s first day in cou...

Counter accusations mark Karoro’s first day in court

Zim Now Writer

The first State witness in the trial of Douglas Karoro has claimed that he paid the former Deputy Minister of Lands, Agriculture, Fisheries, Water and Rural Development for fertiliser, an allegation Karoro refuted.

Widon Chiodza told the court today (Thursday) that he gave Karoro and his accomplices US$10 000 for fertiliser. Chiodza said he was not aware that the fertiliser was stolen.

Karoro is facing charges of fraud related to the Presidential Inputs Scheme with the state alleging that between March and April last year, Karoro illegally took items worth US$96 300.from the Presidential inputs scheme.

The list comprises fertiliser, maize seed and vegetable combo kits worth US$91 300.

In his defence Karoro through his legal team said Chiodza connived with truck drivers to steal Presidential Inputs from Mushumbi Grain Marketing Board Depot using Karoro’s name.

Karoro said Chiodza culpability is demonstrated by the fact that Chiodza failed to lodge a complaint with the police yet he passed through more than 12 police stations and three police roadblocks from Mushumbi until he got to Harare and only released information to police during investigations.

The State’s second witness is expected to testify when the trial continues tomorrow (Friday) with the state expected to call the second witness to the stand.