The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested five individuals involved in a fraudulent housing scheme that deceived over 250 home seekers out of more than US$200,000.
Among those arrested are Tinomudaishe Muraicho and Tafira Makochekeranwa, co-directors of Swandev Private Limited; Tichaona Murundu, Chairperson of Homeseekers for ED; Farai Nyandoro, Chairperson of Pastors for ED; and Special Magirazi, co-director of Rant Dutoit Private Limited. One additional accomplice remains on the run.
The accused are believed to have exploited the name of President Emmerson Mnangagwa to carry out their fraudulent activities, allegedly under the guise of the “for ED” groups. They illegally subdivided a section of Elmeswood Farm—owned by the Marondera Town Council—and sold the plots of land to unsuspecting buyers. Victims were charged a $50 registration fee, followed by additional deposits of up to $500 for stand allocations that were never honored.
The five suspects appeared at the Marondera Magistrates’ Court on August 31, 2024, facing charges related to fraud. They have been remanded in custody until September 2, 2024, when a bail hearing will take place.
The ZACC continues its investigation, and authorities are working to locate the remaining accomplice involved in the scam.