The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has apprehended Patson Chipunza, councillor for Ward 11 in Seke, on charges related to fraudulent land activities linked to the late former Minister of Mines and Mining Development, Amos Midzi’s estate.
The allegations against Chipunza date back to December 2022, when it is claimed he unlawfully subdivided Earling Farm in Beatrice and proceeded to advertise the subdivided plots for sale through an agent.
According to reports, Phillip Chapfunga, acting upon seeing one of these adverts, engaged the agent and subsequently met Chipunza. Allegedly posing as the village head and rightful owner of the land, Chipunza purportedly convinced Chapfunga to purchase a 63-hectare plot for US$29,000.
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Chapfunga also invested an additional US$41,000 in farm infrastructure based on Chipunza’s misrepresentation.
The fraudulent transaction came to light when a co-executor of the late Amos Midzi’s estate discovered discrepancies and reported the matter to ZACC, prompting Chipunza’s arrest.
Chipunza is expected to appear in court today to answer to charges related to fraud and misrepresentation regarding land ownership and sales.
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