Car dealer granted bail over US$624 000 fraud allegations

Harare car dealer Hazel Mafu, accused of allegedly defrauding scores of clients of more than US$624 000 and ZiG1.2 million through a bogus vehicle importation scheme, has been granted US$500 bail by the High Court.

Mafu, 35, who is the director of Hezy Motors Logistics, had previously been denied bail by the Harare Magistrates Court.

High Court Judge Justice Custom Kachambwa granted Mafu bail and ordered her to reside at her stated address in Waterfalls, surrender her passport to the Clerk of Court and report to the police every Friday.

The State alleges that between 2022 and recently, Mafu advertised vehicle importation services through various platforms, including social media, electronic and print media.

She allegedly represented to prospective clients that she could source and import vehicles within agreed timeframes and at competitive prices.

According to prosecutors, numerous clients believed the representations and paid Mafu varying amounts for the purchase and importation of vehicles.

The State alleges, however, that after receiving the money, Mafu failed to deliver the vehicles as agreed.

Prosecutors further allege that Mafu falsely represented that she was able and willing to supply the vehicles when she allegedly had neither the intention nor the capacity to fulfil the orders.

The alleged representations resulted in clients parting with their money, according to the State.

The total alleged prejudice is US$624 958.96 and ZiG1 275 878.35.

Prosecutors allege that none of the money has been recovered.

Mafu will now face the allegations while out on bail, subject to the conditions imposed by the High Court.