A Harare magistrate has denied bail to Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, founder of Hezy Motors Logistics, who is facing fraud charges over an alleged vehicle importation scam involving nearly US$1 million and 79 complainants.
Regional magistrate Jesse Kufa ruled on Monday that Mafu’s circumstances were different from those of her co-accused, who had already been granted bail. Kufa noted that Mafu was on the run, unlike her accomplices, and that her role as director could not be equated to that of employees.
Prosecutors allege that between 2022 and the present, Mafu marketed vehicle importation services through social media and other platforms, falsely claiming she could source and deliver imported vehicles within specified timeframes. Investigators say 79 clients paid deposits or full purchase prices, but the vehicles were never supplied.
The State says complainants suffered actual prejudice amounting to US$624,958.96 and ZiG1,275,878.35, with nothing recovered. Mafu remains in custody awaiting trial.