Solar company director in court over US$24k battery fraud charges

A Harare-based solar company director has appeared before the courts facing fraud charges after allegedly obtaining solar batteries worth more than US$24,000 through misrepresentation.

Panashe Kajama (28) appeared at the Harare Magistrates Court on Friday alongside his company on allegations of defrauding solar equipment supplier Sinociber Group Private Limited of US$24,360 in an unsuccessful business transaction.

According to court papers, Kajama allegedly contacted Sinociber Group on May 13 and placed an order for more than 60 solar batteries valued at US$31,360. Prosecutors allege he represented that he had sufficient funds available and would settle the full amount upon delivery.

Acting on those assurances, the supplier reportedly delivered the batteries. The State alleges that Kajama paid only US$7,000, leaving an outstanding balance of US$24,360.

Prosecutors further claim that after receiving the equipment, Kajama repeatedly promised to settle the remaining amount but allegedly failed to do so and later became evasive when approached for payment.

The matter is now before the courts, with Kajama expected to return to court on July 13 for further proceedings.

The allegations remain unproven, and Kajama is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.