Madzibaba faces motor vehicle theft charge

Collet Tavengwa, a member of the Johanne Masowe YeChishanu Apostolic sect in Marondera, appeared in court on Tuesday, facing charges of motor vehicle theft. The 40-year-old is accused of fraudulently obtaining a Toyota Hilux GD6 single cab truck from a Harare car dealership.

Tavengwa appeared before Magistrate Donald Ndirowei, who granted him US$500 bail. The case was remanded to December 11 for further proceedings.

According to the State's allegations, on October 5, 2024, Tavengwa, fully aware that he was not a beneficiary of the two vehicles donated by businessman Wicknell Chivayo, approached White Stallion Autogroup, a car dealership located in Borrowdale, Harare. Tavengwa reportedly lied to the dealership's representative, Joel Chikosi, claiming he was one of the intended recipients of the donated vehicles, despite the fact that Chivayo had not disclosed the names of the beneficiaries.

Chikosi, under the impression that Tavengwa was a legitimate recipient, handed over one of the Toyota Hilux GD6 trucks to him, along with an agreement of sale. Tavengwa then allegedly drove away with the vehicle.

The theft was uncovered when Chivayo made inquiries about the vehicles, leading to Tavengwa's arrest.

The case has drawn attention due to Tavengwa's position within the Johanne Masowe YeChishanu Apostolic sect, a religious community with significant influence in some parts of Zimbabwe.