A Harare manager has appeared in court accused of diverting US$10,200 in company funds to betting activities. The money was intended for rental payments but was allegedly used on the Aviator game. The accused remains in custody awaiting a bail hearing.
A 39-year-old area manager based in Harare appeared in court last Friday facing theft charges after he allegedly diverted company funds amounting to US$10,200 to betting activities. The accused, Justine Ngoshi, is employed by Farm & City Private Limited.
Ngoshi was brought before Harare provincial magistrate Michael Mafukidze, where he faced allegations of misappropriating company funds. He was remanded in custody pending a full bail hearing, according to court proceedings.
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The State alleges that between July 31 last year and February 28 this year, Ngoshi collected funds totalling US$10,200. The money was reportedly intended for rental payments for the Belgravia branch of Farm & City.
According to court records, the funds were supposed to be handed over to Sawyer and Mkushi Legal Practitioners, who were responsible for handling the rental payments. However, it is alleged that the money was not delivered as required.
Instead, prosecutors claim that Ngoshi diverted the funds for personal use. The court heard that the accused allegedly spent the money on betting, specifically playing the Aviator game, which is a popular online betting platform.
The alleged misuse of company funds was said to have taken place over several months. During this period, the total amount involved accumulated to US$10,200, which has not been recovered.
Authorities stated in court that no portion of the funds has been accounted for since the alleged diversion. The case has been classified as a serious financial offence due to the amount involved and the position held by the accused.
Cases involving financial misconduct and misuse of company funds have been reported by local media, including The Herald Zimbabwe and NewsDay Zimbabwe, reflecting concerns over internal controls and accountability in organisations.
The matter is still before the courts, and further proceedings are expected to determine the outcome of the case. Ngoshi remains in custody as he awaits a full bail hearing.
The allegations highlight the risks associated with financial mismanagement and the potential consequences faced by individuals entrusted with handling company funds.
