Fuel scam architect granted US$2000 bail

Glow Petroleum Trading Private Limited Managing Director, Aaron Chinhara (44), who is facing charges of defrauding the state of over US$10 million and money laundering in a fuel scam, has been admitted to US$2 000 bail.

The complainant in the matter is the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), which alleges that Chinhara misrepresented to the revenue collector that his company wanted to procure fuel for the Zimbabwe Defence Industries (ZDI) to be issued a tax exemption certificate.

After being issued with the certificate, Chinhara allegedly procured over 37 million litres of fuel.

Only 4 million litres reached the ZDI while more than 33 million litres were diverted to the open market, prejudicing the state of US$10,4 million in revenue.

Harare magistrate, Mr Milton Serima admitted Chinhara to US$2 000 bail, ordering him to surrender his passport to the Clerk of Court, to report once monthly at CID Serious Frauds and remanded the matter to the 13th of February. ZBC