HARARE businesswoman Hazel Mafu, who is facing fraud charges after allegedly duping 76 people of more than US$624 000 and ZIG1,2 million in a vehicle import scheme, has spent another night in custody. Hazel, 35, who initially appeared in court over the weekend, was back in court yesterday where her case was rolled over to today for bail considerations due to time constraints. Hazel is an award-winning businesswoman who spoiled herself on her 35th birthday last year by having fun in Paris, Rome, Berlin and Madrid.
The fraudulent activities, according to prosecutors, happened in the last four years. Hazel allegedly advertised vehicle importation services through various platforms and claimed she could import cars on behalf of clients. However, prosecutors say she did not deliver as agreed, in a number of cases, leaving scores of clients counting their costs.
Prosecutors further alleged that she misrepresented that she had the capacity to source and deliver imported vehicles within agreed timeframes and at competitive prices. This prompted the complainants to pay various sums of money for the purchase and importation of vehicles. It is alleged that despite receiving the funds, Hazel failed to deliver the vehicles.
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The State contends that she falsely claimed she had the capacity to supply the vehicles, thereby prejudicing the complainants. The alleged prejudice amounts to US$624,958.96 and ZIG1 275 878.35 and nothing was recovered. It’s a stunning turnaround for a businesswoman who has won many awards of excellence, invited to a number of radio shows to tell her story and has been a guest speaker at women empowerment forums.
Last year, she won the Outstanding Young CEO silver award. She also decided to spoil herself with a holiday in France, Rome, Spain and Germany.
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