Zimbabwe Businessman Charged with Fraud in $90,000 Fuel Supply Deal

Daniel Guzha, the owner of Bell Petroleum in Zimbabwe, has been charged with fraud for allegedly duping businesswoman Tinashe Cheryl Mupingo of over US$90,000 in a botched fuel supply deal. Guzha is accused of delivering only a portion of the paid-for fuel, despite receiving the full payment from Mupingo.

According to court documents, Mupingo, the director of Platinum Island Pvt Ltd, had a regular business relationship with Guzha dating back to 2022, where she would pay upfront for bulk fuel, which was sometimes delivered with delays. In March 2024, Mupingo paid a total of US$95,502 for 120,000 liters of diesel, but Guzha only delivered 49,987 liters, despite acknowledging receipt of the full payment.

The fraud came to light when Mupingo realized she had not been credited for the fuel she had paid for, despite having proof of payment and delivery notes. Investigations revealed that Guzha had allegedly forged the delivery notes, and Mupingo suffered an actual loss of US$95,502 with no recovery made.

Why this matters: This case highlights issues of fraud and deception in business transactions in Zimbabwe, and the authorities are investigating the matter further to ensure justice is served and to deter similar fraudulent activities in the future.

Guzha has been charged with fraud and granted bail of US$500 by a Harare magistrate. "It was found that Guzha had forged the delivery notes, and the complainant suffered an actual loss of US$95,502 with no recovery made," stated the court documents. The case is currently being heard in court, where Guzha and his company, Bell Petroleum Pvt Ltd, are facing charges related to the fraudulent transaction.

Key Takeaways

• Daniel Guzha, owner of Bell Petroleum, charged with US$90K fraud against Tinashe Mupingo.
• Guzha received full payment for 120,000 liters of diesel but only delivered 49,987 liters.
• Investigations revealed Guzha forged delivery notes, causing Mupingo a US$95,502 loss.
• Guzha charged with fraud, granted US$500 bail, case ongoing in court.
• Incident highlights issues of fraud and deception in Zimbabwe's business transactions.