Kadoma, Zimbabwe – Ignatius Taruvinga, the 65-year-old village head under Chief Mpumamombe, was arraigned before the Kadoma Magistrates’ Court today, facing serious allegations of fraud. Taruvinga is accused of illicitly selling land that is officially owned by the Kadoma City Council to unsuspecting settlers.

The fraudulent activities came to light after desperate land seekers, who believed they were purchasing legitimate plots within Railway 7, a property purported to belong to the Mpumamombe clan, were duped. The settlers paid a minimum of USD 250 each as a token of appreciation to the accused, and were given affidavits as proof of their transactions.

On February 1st, the Kadoma City Council, upon receiving complaints from the newly settled residents, reported the issue to the Criminal Investigation Department (CID). The investigation confirmed that the land sales were unauthorized and illegal.

Following the CID’s findings, Taruvinga was arrested as he failed to provide a satisfactory explanation for his actions. His case has raised concerns about the vulnerability of land seekers in the region and the need for more stringent oversight on land sales.

The accused has been remanded until October 8, 2024, as investigations continue. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in the land distribution system in Zimbabwe, emphasizing the need for reform and the protection of potential landowners from fraudulent schemes.