The Investigating Officer (IO) nailed businessmen Chimombe and Mpofu. They are accused of US$7 million fraud in the Presidential Goat Scheme. Thursday’s arrest opposed their bail application.
Currently detained at Harare Remand Prison, Chimombe and Mpofu await finalization of their bail hearing after Wednesday’s arrest.
On Thursday, State prosecutor Anesu Chirenje opposed bail, presenting Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission IO Gamuchirai Zimunhu’s evidence. Zimunhu argued against their release, citing their uncooperative behavior before arrest.
Chimombe and Mpofu visited ZACC on Monday morning but didn’t return as instructed. Zimunhu stated they failed to show up on Tuesday as well, despite promises.
“Mr. Chapwanya (ZACC IO) advised Mugiya that his clients had turned hostile,” she narrated, prompting a manhunt.
The manhunt failed, with Mpofu reportedly in Zvimba and Chimombe out of Harare. Mugiya promised to bring Chimombe by 6pm Tuesday but failed.
Zimunhu noted they surrendered to ZACC on Wednesday before arrest. She doubted Mpofu’s residence in Greendale, finding an unfinished building and a gardener.
Zimunhu faces cross-examination today, followed by another IO testimony.
The state alleges fraud from documents submitted by Chimombe and Mpofu through Blackdeck Private Limited. They won a US$87 million goat supply tender in September 2021.
Blackdeck Livestock, an unregistered company, signed documents with the ministry, represented by Mpofu and witnessed by Chimombe.
Further investigation revealed Blackdeck had no valid 2021 tax clearance or a correct QR code on the National Social Security compliance certificate.
The ministry paid ZWL1.6 billion (US$7.7 million) based on misrepresentations. Despite claims, only 3,713 goats were available instead of 32,500.
The ministry canceled the contract on August 29, 2022, realizing they were deceived. So far, only 4,208 goats worth US$331,445.25 have been delivered, with a loss totaling US$7.38 million.
