News / National
Man in court over alleged US$9,000 housing fraud
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A Bulawayo man, Isiah Ncube, appeared before the Bulawayo regional magistrate, Mrs. Dambudzo Malunga, yesterday facing charges of defrauding a 50-year-old woman of over US$9,000 in a botched housing deal.
Ncube, who resides in Nketa 9 suburb, was remanded in custody to December 31 for a ruling on his application for discharge at the close of the State's case. Acting as his own legal representative, Ncube denies the charges against him.
Details of the Allegations
The complainant, Ms. Virginia Dube, claimed she approached Ncube after responding to a newspaper advertisement in August 2017 for a house on sale in Emganwini suburb. According to the prosecution led by Mr. Owen Mugari, Ms. Dube contacted the number listed in the ad and was introduced to a man claiming to be an estate agent for the property.
The agent arranged for Ms. Dube to view the house and later took her to Ncube's residence, where he was introduced as the property owner.
Ncube allegedly agreed to sell the house for US$14,000. Ms. Dube paid US$8,000 through Agribank and handed over an additional US$1,000 in cash. An agreement of sale was reportedly drafted by Ncube.
Accusations of Fraud
Ms. Dube told the court that the documents provided by Ncube were forged and claimed that he was part of a syndicate targeting unsuspecting homeseekers.
The case remains under deliberation, with Ncube applying for discharge at the close of the State's case. The court is set to rule on the application later this month.
Legal and Social Implications
The case highlights the risks associated with fraudulent property deals and the vulnerability of home seekers. Authorities continue to urge prospective buyers to exercise caution, thoroughly verify property ownership, and engage licensed estate agents in real estate transactions.
If convicted, Ncube could face significant legal consequences for his alleged role in the fraudulent transaction.
Ncube, who resides in Nketa 9 suburb, was remanded in custody to December 31 for a ruling on his application for discharge at the close of the State's case. Acting as his own legal representative, Ncube denies the charges against him.
Details of the Allegations
The complainant, Ms. Virginia Dube, claimed she approached Ncube after responding to a newspaper advertisement in August 2017 for a house on sale in Emganwini suburb. According to the prosecution led by Mr. Owen Mugari, Ms. Dube contacted the number listed in the ad and was introduced to a man claiming to be an estate agent for the property.
The agent arranged for Ms. Dube to view the house and later took her to Ncube's residence, where he was introduced as the property owner.
Accusations of Fraud
Ms. Dube told the court that the documents provided by Ncube were forged and claimed that he was part of a syndicate targeting unsuspecting homeseekers.
The case remains under deliberation, with Ncube applying for discharge at the close of the State's case. The court is set to rule on the application later this month.
Legal and Social Implications
The case highlights the risks associated with fraudulent property deals and the vulnerability of home seekers. Authorities continue to urge prospective buyers to exercise caution, thoroughly verify property ownership, and engage licensed estate agents in real estate transactions.
If convicted, Ncube could face significant legal consequences for his alleged role in the fraudulent transaction.
Source - the chronicle
