Property developer in court over US$22,000 land scam

A Harare-based property developer has appeared in court facing fraud charges after allegedly swindling a prospective land buyer out of more than US$22 000 in a disputed residential stand transaction.

Adam Juru, representing Highrange Resources Property Developers, appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo.

The matter was remanded to June 4.

According to the State, represented by prosecutor Lawrence Gangarahwe, the dispute dates back to October 2021 when land surveyor Simbarashe Mukoko was allegedly compensated by Marondera Municipality with residential stands for surveying work carried out for the local authority.

In November 2021, complainant Edwin Karuwo reportedly learnt that Mukoko was selling one of the stands and proceeded to purchase Stand Number 7753, measuring 1 850 square metres, for US$19 000.

After completing payment, Mukoko allegedly introduced Karuwo to Highrange Resources Property Developers, represented by Juru.

The court heard that in February 2025, Karuwo paid additional cession fees to the developer and opened a file with Marondera Town Planning and Housing authorities.

However, problems reportedly emerged in October 2025 when Karuwo visited the property and allegedly discovered discrepancies involving the stand's boundary pegs and ongoing developments on the same land.

After raising concerns with Marondera Municipality, Karuwo was reportedly referred back to the developer for clarification.

The complainant also approached Mukoko, who allegedly told him that responsibility now rested with the developer because the transaction had already been handed over to Highrange Resources Property Developers.

Prosecutors say the total prejudice amounts to US$22 525 and that no money has been recovered.