Harare, Zimbabwe | Dennis Madondo (33) from Murehwa, who was acquitted last year of involvement in the high-profile armed robbery of US$2.7 million in ZB Bank cash in 2021, is now facing trial for money laundering.
The state alleges that he used proceeds from criminal activities to purchase a luxury vehicle and was found in possession of a significant amount of cash.
The trial commenced yesterday before regional magistrate Mr. Taurai Manuwere, with Mr. Ngoni Kaseke leading the prosecution.
According to the state’s case, between January 5 and January 13, 2021, Madondo purchased a silver Mercedes Benz E320 for US$9,000 and was later found in possession of US$62,500 in cash.
Authorities argue that he either knew or ought to have suspected that the funds were linked to criminal activities and accuse him of attempting to conceal their illicit origins.
Madondo, through his lawyer, has strongly denied the charges, insisting that they are a mere rehash of the armed robbery case for which he was acquitted. His defense maintains that there is no direct evidence linking the funds to any illegal activity.
The case has drawn significant public interest, given its connection to one of Zimbabwe’s largest cash-in-transit robberies. The trial continues, with the prosecution expected to present evidence and witnesses in the coming days.
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