Seven Jailed for Illegal Land Occupation in Goromonzi

Rutendo Mazhindu- Zim Now Reporter

The Harare Magistrates’ Court has sentenced seven individuals to five months in prison for illegally occupying and developing land in Goromonzi without government approval.

Bamsi Magaisa ,56,, Philip Kambuto ,48, Joel Madziva ,45, Isaac Wiliseni ,49, Togarepi Mudzudza ,46, Shelly Chapwanya ,52, and Tatenda Ndlovu ,23 were convicted of unlawfully pegging and allocating residential stands in Cloverdale B of Galloway Estate. Their actions violated the Regional, Town, and Country Planning Act.

Investigations revealed that between April and October 2024, the group settled people on the land without authorisation, despite Glorious Properties Pvt Ltd holding exclusive development rights under an agreement with the Ministry of Local Government and Public Works.

The illegal activities included the construction of unauthorized structures, which disrupted planned developments and caused damage to roads, water pipes, and survey markers.

The court issued a stern warning to land barons and illegal settlers, stressing that violators will face prosecution. Citizens were urged to acquire land through legal channels to avoid severe consequences.