The case was heard at the local courts by magistrate Sithembiso Ncube this week with Andrew Marimo representing the state. The value of the stolen property was converted to foreign currency using the exchange rate of that time.
Marimo told the court that Lucy Mashoko (52) on October 16, 2006, reportedly hoodwinked the RDC’s Finance Clerk for ZW$10 000 after presenting a fake cheque.
On November 28, 2006, the council put the cheque in the bank to redeem cash but it was referred back due to errors. 
Between January and February 2007 Mashoko reportedly made other misrepresentations to Chirumanzu RDC, getting away with cash. It is further alleged that in February 2005, Mashoko allegedly deprived the council of 15 water pumps and eight rods valued at ZW$30 million for his own use. Mashoko denied the charges. Mike Jumo of Jumo Mashoko Legal Practitioners, who is representing the accused, said his client had reasonable evidence to convince anyone that no crime was committed.
He added that the state’s case was bound to crumble because there was no overwhelming evidence. Trial was postponed to April 14.
The case comes at a time when Mvuma District Administrator, Michael Mariga, is also awaiting judgement for a case in which he is accused of criminal abuse of office for allegedly selling land to prospective buyers and abusing the proceeds.
Post published in: News