Ponzi scammers don't deserve bail - State

Ponzi schemes, fraudsters do not deserve to be granted bail because of the number of people losing out.

This was the argument of the State through prosecutor Anesu Chirenje while opposing bail against Gweru businessman Emmanuel Chikweza.

Chirenje owns Homelife Furniture and Electrical Appliance Company and is being accused of having duped Harare car dealer Brighton Ushendibaba of US$80 000 in a Ponzi scheme.

Chikweza is being charged together with his company.

“If this accused person is released into society, he will be a danger to the public and they which should be protected from such people and keep them in remand,” Chirenje argued.

“The accused also tampered with evidence, it is very clear that bail can be opposed if there is tampering with evidence. The evidence by the investigating officer was not rebutted.