Bosso fraud drama drags on

The trial of former Highlanders CEO Brian Busani Moyo, accused of defrauding the club of US$2 000, has been postponed to September 8 after his lawyer requested additional time to attend to another High Court matter.

Moyo's legal representative, Thamani Ncube of Wallace Law Chambers, informed Bulawayo magistrate Richard Ramaboea of the scheduling conflict. The magistrate granted the request, noting that High Court proceedings take precedence over magistrates' court cases.

Last week, Ncube sought to have Moyo discharged from the case, but Magistrate Ramaboea dismissed the application, describing it as "scandalous" to acquit the former CEO without a full trial.

The case arises from December 2024 player transfers from Bulawayo Chiefs to Highlanders, involving striker Never Rauzhi and midfielder Malvern Hativagoni. While the initial transfer fees were set at US$25 000 for Rauzhi and US$15 000 for Hativagoni's loan, negotiations reduced the amounts to US$13 000 and US$10 000, respectively.

The prosecution alleges that Moyo and former Chiefs administrator Mandigora conspired to inflate the figures presented to Highlanders, claiming the total deal was worth US$18 000. The US$5 000 difference was allegedly split between the two, with Mandigora taking US$3 000 and Moyo allegedly pocketing US$2 000. Mandigora has since pleaded guilty and turned State witness.

In a recent courtroom twist, Magistrate Ramaboea disclosed that Moyo's lawyer had barred State witness Lovemore Sibanda, owner of Bulawayo Chiefs, from retrieving key receipts and a Memorandum of Understanding intended to confirm that the club had received only US$18 000.

The case has drawn significant attention from local football fans, who are keen to see whether the former CEO will be acquitted or found guilty when proceedings resume next week.