By A Correspondent| President Emmerson Mnangagwa’s son, Sean, the twin brother of Army Major Collins Mnangagwa, has been accused of accepting a USD 30,000 bribe to influence Attorney General Virginia Mabiza’s decisions in a long-running mining dispute.
The bribe was allegedly paid by controversial businessman Mohamed Daka, a suspected fraudster with a history of dubious dealings. The revelation has deepened concerns over corruption in Zimbabwe’s mining sector, exposing a complex web of political and legal manipulation.
Daka, a Bulawayo-based businessman, gained notoriety after allegedly defrauding Indian investor Jaymill Macchi in a fraudulent mining deal. He reportedly misrepresented himself as the owner of Fools Mine, convincing Macchi to invest USD 500,000 in what he believed was a legitimate business.
However, it later emerged that Daka had no legal claim to the mine, triggering a bitter legal battle that continues to unfold.
To further entrench himself, Daka allegedly exploited his connections and influence to illegally seize control of the mine. Fools Mine was originally owned by the late former Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe, Shuixing Xu. After his passing, his son, Xiaofei Xu, inherited the business. However, Daka allegedly coerced Xiaofei into making unjustified payments and later used his political connections to have him deported, leaving the mine vulnerable to takeover.
Once in control, Daka reportedly forged legal documents, including a fake power of attorney, and filed for bankruptcy, despite the mine being operational, to place it under corporate rescue. He then appointed lawyer Dumisani Dube as corporate rescue manager to legitimize his control and sold valuable mining equipment, even though he had no legal authority over the property.
Daka’s fraudulent activities eventually led to his arrest on July 17, 2024. He was released on USD 500 bail under conditions that required him to remain at his Bradfield residence and report to the Vehicle Theft Squad twice a week. However, he allegedly violated these bail terms, further complicating his legal troubles.
As legal battles over Fools Mine intensified, Daka allegedly sought political protection, which led to the bribery accusations. Reports suggest that he paid USD 30,000 to Sean Mnangagwa, who then used his influence to sway Attorney General Virginia Mabiza in Daka’s favor. If proven true, this allegation casts a shadow over the integrity of Zimbabwe’s legal system, raising questions about political interference in judicial processes.
The case has attracted significant attention both locally and internationally, as it underscores the widespread corruption plaguing Zimbabwe’s mining industry. Daka, once seen as an influential businessman, now faces multiple charges, including fraud, illegal mining, and violating bail conditions. Meanwhile, Sean Mnangagwa’s alleged involvement in the bribery scheme has fueled further speculation about the extent of political protection enjoyed by corrupt individuals. With Attorney General Mabiza also implicated, public confidence in the justice system is at stake.