Businessman Vhurumu Mutero has been sentenced to 12 months behind bars after being found guilty of theft of trust property.
He had received US$125,000 from Staffmark Private Limited to buy a Toyota single-cab truck and a wide range of household items—but instead, he used the money for himself.
Harare magistrate Rufaro Panavanhu handed Mutero a 48-month sentence but suspended 12 months on condition of good behaviour.
A further 24 months will be suspended if he repays the full amount to Staffmark by August 2025. That leaves him with 12 months of actual jail time.
The court heard that between February and July 2024, Staffmark, represented by Trevor Mwanandimayi, entrusted Mutero with the funds to purchase a long list of goods.
These reportedly included four double-door fridges, four 65-inch TVs, a washing machine, four sets of leather sofas, three dining table sets, four deep freezers, seven bed sets, office sofas, outdoor chairs, three tables, and eleven room dividers.
However, Mutero failed to deliver any of the items. The State said he simply spent the money, and nothing has been recovered to date.
Magistrate Panavanhu said the State had presented a strong case, with witness testimony supporting the complainant’s version of events.
She described Mutero’s actions as a serious breach of trust, warranting a custodial sentence.
More: The Herald
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