Tawanda Oswell Jambwa, a suspected land baron accused of illegally parceling out land in Msasa Park, is set to appear in court today to face trial on two counts of fraud.
The allegations date back to 2012 when Jambwa, along with other illegal settlers, reportedly invaded Stand 560 in Chadcombe, a 279.8-hectare property owned by Msasa Park (Pvt) Ltd. Despite being advised by the legitimate owners to cease illegal activities, Jambwa allegedly continued selling plots of land he did not own.
In July 2023, Msasa Park (Pvt) Ltd took action to regularize the occupation of illegal settlers, instructing them to make payments directly to its legal representatives, Bruce Tokwe Commercial Law Chambers. However, it is alleged that Jambwa, in collaboration with an accomplice identified as Rami, who is still at large, defied this directive and conspired to defraud potential land buyers.
In 2023, Rami posted an advertisement on Facebook offering a 400-square-meter residential stand for US$12,000. Magaisa, who was searching for a residential property, contacted Rami for details. Rami informed him that she was selling the stand in partnership with Jambwa and referred Magaisa to him for further discussions.
Jambwa then escorted Magaisa to the site for viewing and convinced him that the property was legitimate. Magaisa paid US$9,500 in cash at the site, and they signed an Agreement of Sale. However, no receipts were issued for the transaction.
The fraud was uncovered when Magaisa later discovered that the stand he had purchased belonged to Msasa Park (Pvt) Ltd and not Jambwa. Feeling deceived, Magaisa reported the matter to the police.
Dzemunyasi became the second victim after seeing a similar advertisement posted on Facebook by Yauma Properties. He proceeded to purchase a stand from Jambwa for US$5,000. Like Magaisa, he later learned that the stand was owned by Msasa Park and not Jambwa, prompting him to file a police report.
Jambwa’s trial is set to commence today as the court hears evidence from both complainants. Authorities are still searching for Rami, Jambwa’s alleged accomplice.
The case underscores the risks posed by unregulated property transactions and highlights the need for potential buyers to verify ownership before making purchases.
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