Crimes and Courts Reporter
www.zimgbcnews.co.zw
In a shocking case of impersonation and fraud, Shepherd Mangoma, accused of posing as a State Security Agent, appeared before Harare Magistrate Ruth Moyo on Friday.
He faces serious charges of mistrust including impersonation, fraud, and theft of trust property, after allegedly conning local farmer Kudakwashe Mbaura out of nearly $30,000.
According to court documents, the fraudulent scheme began on August 12, 2021, when Mangoma approached Mbaura with a promise to help him acquire a farm.
“He claimed he could assist me with the process,” Mbaura said. “I believed him because he presented a fake ID card, portraying himself as an employee of the President’s department.”
Mangoma initially requested $450 from Mbaura, claiming it was needed to pay “bosses” who could facilitate the acquisition of the desired property in the Grange area of Odzi, Manicaland. Mbaura complied, traveling to Harare to hand over the funds. However, the situation spiraled into a two-year ordeal where Mangoma repeatedly solicited additional payments for various alleged farm-related expenses.
“In total, I paid him $27,724 and ZWL$66,000 over several months,” Mbaura revealed.
“Each time, he had a different excuse for why he needed more money, whether it was for farming equipment, transport, or even fees for Zanu-PF officials.”
Despite numerous assurances from Mangoma, Mbaura never received any documentation or a farm offer letter. When Mbaura finally demanded a refund, he was met with threats.
“He told me he would kill me if I pursued the matter any further,” said Mbaura, visibly shaken by the experience.
The situation worsened in February 2024 when Mbaura was arrested in Mutare. Mangoma allegedly contacted the detectives involved in the case, claiming to be an official from the President’s department. He offered to assist Mbaura in hiring a lawyer, demanding $900 for legal services that he never provided.
“I thought he was trying to help, but he just took my money again,” Mbaura lamented.
It was through social media that Mbaura discovered Mangoma’s previous arrest for similar offenses, prompting him to report the matter to the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Mutare Central. The case has since been transferred to the Criminal Investigations Department’s Property and Anti-Corruption Unit (CID PACU) for further investigation.
As of now, no funds have been recovered from Mangoma, who was granted bail of $300 following his court appearance.
The investigation continues as authorities work to bring all parties involved to justice.
Zim GBC News