Traditional Healer Jailed for Theft and Money Laundering in $20,100 Scam.
Mutare, Zimbabwe — A traditional healer from Matondo Village in Chigodora, Petros Chiropa (35), has been sentenced to 54 months in prison after being found guilty of theft of trust property and money laundering involving US$20,100.
Mutare provincial magistrate, Ms. Annie Ndiraya, delivered the verdict, ordering Chiropa to also restitute US$8,100 to his victim, Assistant Commissioner Florence Marume of the Zimbabwe Republic Police in Masvingo. Prosecutor Mr. Tafadzwa Zulu led the State’s case against Chiropa.
The Crime and Court Proceedings
Chiropa was convicted on two counts of theft of trust property under Section 133 (2)(b) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, Chapter 9:23, as well as contravening the Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act, Chapter 9:23.
The court heard that Assistant Commissioner Marume had entrusted her domestic worker, Precious Nyasha Manyawu, with US$20,100 for safekeeping. However, when Marume requested the money on December 16, 2023, Manyawu failed to produce it, prompting an investigation.
It was discovered that Chiropa, with Manyawu’s assistance, had stolen the money and spent it on lavish items, including a Toyota Runx, household furniture, a 55-inch plasma TV, and a solar panel.
A Romantic Plot Unveiled
The trial exposed a romantic relationship between Chiropa and Manyawu, through which they allegedly hatched the plan to steal from Marume. Manyawu, who had been a trusted domestic worker for eight years, has already been punished and is currently serving her sentence at Mutare Remand Prison.
Chiropa initially pleaded not guilty, claiming the charges were fabricated and asserting his status as a “famous traditional healer of means.” He further muddied his defense by offering inconsistent statements about his profession, at one point claiming to also be a truck driver and businessman.
Absconding and Arrest
The trial was marked by Chiropa’s initial release on bail, after which he absconded. Authorities later re-arrested him, and he was held in remand prison for violating bail conditions.
Magistrate Ms. Ndiraya noted the overwhelming evidence against Chiropa, including his influence over Manyawu and his extravagant expenditures following the theft.
Legal and Community Repercussions
The case has drawn widespread attention, particularly regarding the abuse of trust and the role of traditional healers in Zimbabwean society. The harsh sentence and restitution order serve as a warning against financial crimes and the abuse of social and professional influence.
Chiropa’s sentencing brings some closure to Assistant Commissioner Marume, who has since recovered US$12,000 of the stolen amount.
The case highlights the need for vigilance in handling trust property and reinforces the legal consequences of betrayal and financial misconduct.
Stay with us for more updates on this developing story.