Businessman accused of defrauding ZIMRA of ZiG2 Million

 

A Harare businessman, Trevor Zibgwowa (35), appeared in the Magistrates' Courts on Tuesday, facing charges of defrauding the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) of over ZiG2 million. The alleged fraud was committed through his company, Trevomz Industries Private Limited, in what prosecutors are calling a "botched clearing deal."

 Magistrate Lisa Mutendereki granted Zibgwowa US$500 bail.

 Prosecutor Lancelot Mutsokoti told the court that on August 30, Zibgwowa allegedly made a fake deposit of ZiG2,149,248 into a ZIMRA account. This misrepresentation, according to the prosecution, led ZIMRA to believe the funds had been received, prompting the agency to sanction the clearing of goods for Zibgwowa's company.

 The alleged deception was uncovered on September 8 when ZIMRA received a tip-off about the fraudulent transaction. An internal audit was conducted, which confirmed that the deposit was indeed fake.

 The case has been remanded for further proceedings as the investigation continues.