Siqokoqela Mphoko, a former shareholder in Choppies Zimbabwe, is speaking out about a betrayal he alleges was committed by prominent Zimbabwean lawyer Welshman Ncube, and is calling for justice.
Mphoko’s ordeal began in 2019 when he decided to sell his 25.5% stake in Choppies Zimbabwe, valued at USD $1.35 million, after a dispute with other shareholders. Seeking legal assistance, he approached Welshman Ncube, a well-known lawyer, at the recommendation of his father, R.P. Mphoko. Ncube was entrusted with overseeing the transaction, but the outcome has left Mphoko financially and legally distressed.
According to Mphoko, the payment for his shares was originally agreed to be made in US dollars, but he claims Ncube converted the funds into RTGS (Zimbabwean dollars), allegedly pocketing the difference. This action not only cost Mphoko significant financial losses, but it also led to legal trouble with the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), which later contacted him regarding unpaid capital gains tax on the sale.
Despite reporting the incident to the police, Mphoko alleges that little action has been taken against Ncube. He claims that the investigating officer, Kenneth Mpofu—now the head of the Bulawayo CID—has failed to pursue the matter, despite evidence of misconduct. Mphoko also accuses Ncube of not forwarding the required tax payment to ZIMRA, leaving him to bear the financial burden.
In his appeal, Mphoko insists that Ncube should be held accountable for his actions, emphasizing that the lawyer’s legal standing should not shield him from the consequences of alleged fraudulent behavior. Mphoko continues to seek justice, hoping the legal system will address the impact of Ncube’s actions and bring him to account for the financial harm caused.
