Woman accused of defrauding 79 car buyers appears in court

A 35-year-old woman who documented luxury trips across Europe on social media has appeared before the courts facing fraud charges after allegedly swindling 79 people through a vehicle import scheme.

Hazel Silibaziso Mafu appeared in court on Saturday accused of defrauding clients who paid her to import vehicles from Japan through her company, Hezy Motors Logistics.

According to the National Prosecuting Authority (NPA), Mafu allegedly persuaded customers seeking to purchase vehicles to deposit money into the company's bank account between 2022 and 2026.

Prosecutors allege that a total of US$624,958.96 and ZiG1,275,878.35 was paid to Mafu by the complainants. However, she allegedly failed to deliver the vehicles as agreed and later became evasive when clients began demanding updates or refunds.

The court remanded Mafu in custody until Monday, when she is expected to apply for bail.

The case has attracted widespread public attention following revelations that Mafu frequently shared photographs of her international travels on social media.

Last year, she marked her birthday with visits to several European destinations, including Paris, Rome, Spain and Germany.

In one post taken at the Eiffel Tower in Paris, she wrote: "On top of the world, Eiffel Tower, Paris! Every moment feels cinematic."

In another post, she reflected on success and self-care, saying: "Even the strongest engine needs a fuel stop. Let's normalise rest as part of success."

Authorities continue to investigate the alleged fraud as court proceedings against Mafu continue.