Harare, Zimbabwe – Magistrate Stanley Mambanje issued a warrant of arrest on Tuesday for Calton Mudiwiwa (39), who failed to appear in court on the day he was expected to receive judgment in a case involving allegations of fraud. Mudiwiwa is accused of duping Davure Mining, a South Africa-based company, out of R440,000 in a botched vehicle supply deal.
The Alleged Fraud
The case, brought forward by Davure Mining’s manager, Masimba Mukarati, centers on a transaction that began on October 20, 2021. Mukarati had sought to purchase a Toyota Hilux Legend 50 double-cab vehicle from South Africa. Mudiwiwa reportedly offered to assist in importing the vehicle after learning about Mukarati’s plans.
Davure Mining, a holding company with subsidiaries in South Africa and Zimbabwe, used its FNB Bank account in South Africa to pay the full price for the vehicle. The funds were transferred to Wish Worthy Investments at Mudiwiwa’s instruction. Mukarati provided proof of payment to Mudiwiwa to facilitate the transaction.
Broken Promises and Evasion
Following the payment, Mudiwiwa allegedly failed to deliver the vehicle. The prosecution claims he began making false promises about the status of the transaction and eventually became evasive, raising suspicions of fraudulent intent.
Court Action
Mudiwiwa was expected to appear in court to hear the verdict in the case but failed to do so. In response, Magistrate Mambanje issued a warrant of arrest, with law enforcement tasked to locate and apprehend him.
Davure Mining’s Interests
Davure Mining, the complainant in the case, operates in multiple sectors, including mining, cattle ranching, and agriculture, with subsidiaries in Zimbabwe and South Africa. The company sought legal recourse after losing a significant amount of money in the failed deal.
Legal and Public Reactions
The case has drawn attention due to its cross-border implications and the substantial sum involved. Legal experts highlight the need for increased scrutiny in business transactions to prevent similar incidents.
Public reactions have been mixed, with some expressing frustration over delayed justice and others emphasizing the importance of accountability in financial dealings.
What’s Next?
Authorities are actively searching for Mudiwiwa, who faces charges of fraud. If apprehended, he will have to answer to allegations that he deliberately misled Davure Mining for personal gain.
The case underscores the importance of due diligence in business transactions, especially in cross-border dealings.
