Self-proclaimed pastor faces theft charges involving trust property worth US$9,300
In a courtroom drama that unfolded on Friday, the self-confessed pastor, Albert Muremo (50), appeared before Harare magistrate Apollonia Marutya, facing three counts of theft involving trust property valued at US$9,300. Muremo vehemently denied the allegations, and his case was remanded to today for a bail hearing.
According to court documents, the first incident occurred on January 12 at Amo-tech car sales, situated at the intersection of Kaguvi Street and Robert Mugabe Way. The complainant, Clifford Rundare, approached Muremo with the intention of purchasing a car. The two parties reportedly reached an agreement on the sale of a Toyota Voxy, with a price tag of US$1,250.
To solidify the deal, Rundare paid a deposit of US$700, with the understanding that the outstanding balance would be settled within two weeks. However, when Rundare returned to finalize the payment before the agreed-upon time had elapsed, he was shocked to discover that the car was no longer on display. Muremo became increasingly evasive, and his communication with the complainant abruptly ceased after he blocked Rundare on all channels of communication. Subsequently, a carefully orchestrated operation led to Muremo’s arrest.
The second count, dated June 9 of the previous year, involved another incident at Amo-tech Car Sales. This time, a different complainant approached Muremo, seeking assistance in selling her Isuzu KB 250 twin cab vehicle. The two parties settled on a sale price of US$5,500 for the vehicle. However, Muremo allegedly breached the agreement, using the funds from the sale for personal purposes. The complainant’s attempts to contact Muremo proved futile, as he had blocked her on all communication platforms.
The third count relates to an incident on September 3 of the same year when Muremo sold a Honda Fit vehicle to the complainant, Tracy Chitsungo, for US$3,100. Disturbingly, Muremo was aware that the motor vehicle documents provided were counterfeit. In October, the vehicle was impounded by the Beatrice branch of the Zimbabwe Republic Police after being reported as stolen property. Investigations subsequently revealed that Muremo had provided Chitsungo with a counterfeit registration book. As a result, Chitsungo suffered a loss of US$3,100, and no recovery has been made to date.
Presenting the State’s case, Rufaro Chonzi outlined the charges against Muremo, painting a compelling picture of deceit and betrayal. The accused, Muremo, stood firm in his denial of the allegations, setting the stage for an intense legal battle.
