By Langton Ncube| The net is closing for land barons including ZIFA President Phillip Chiyangwa as President Emmerson Mnangagwa swears in members of a Commission that would Inquire the sale of state land in and around the urban areas since the year 2005.

The Commission of Inquiry which is expected to conclude its investigation within 12 months from the date of appointment is being chaired by Supreme Court judge Justice Tendai Uchena.

Chiyangwa is under investigation by the Zimbabwe Anti Corruption Commission over Odar Farm now Southlea Park residential suburb in Harare, where he is demanding compensation for the state land from more than 8 000 households.

Chiyangwa is saying that he owned that state land.

According to the state media this is likely to add to the woes of former minister of finance Ignatius Chombo.

Chombo who served for 15 years as the minister of local government has been implicated in many corruption deals regarding the illegal sale of state land, although he was never convicted, let alone arrested.

However, soon after the fall of former president Robert Mugabe, Chombo was arrested and charged with fraud, criminal abuse of office and contravening the Prevention of Corruption Act. The cases are still pending at the courts.

The Commission is also likely to be met with disapproval by “Land barons” who have been accused of illegally selling state land.

Other members of the commission are,Mr Andrew Mlalazi,Mr Steven Chakaipa,Dr Tarisai Mutangi,Dr Heather Chingono,Ms Vimbai Nyemba  and Ms Petronella Musarurwa.