Zimbabwean Lawyer Collapses After Bail Denial Over R5m RAF Theft Allegations

A Zimbabwean lawyer collapses after he was denied bail on his own ongoing case of RAF theft allegations in court.

At the East London magistrate’s court, a Zimbabwean-born attorney, Manfred Chinamasa, facing accusations of embezzling millions from his clients, collapsed upon being denied bail on Wednesday.

Witnesses reported frantic scenes as court staff rushed to his aid, administering water to help him regain consciousness, as per Dispatch LIVE.

Zim Lawyer Opted For Self-Representation

Chinamasa, originally from Zimbabwe, chose to represent himself during the proceedings, opting to dismiss his legal counsel just before the cross-examination of witnesses commenced.

ALSO READ: South African Abductors Fail To Release Zimbabwean Businessman Evans Katumba Following Ransom Payment After Kidnapping Him In Durban

Charges and Allegations

Chinamasa faces charges of misappropriating over R5 million in Road Accident Fund (RAF) funds following his arrest by the Hawks at his Beacon Bay residence.

Zimbabwean lawyer collapses in court after bail denial-Image Source@X

Allegations against Chinamasa include failure to transfer owed funds to his clients post-settlement and breaching his legal duty to safeguard entrusted money in trust accounts.

Additional Charges and Public Interest

Sergeant Chumani Mntumni disclosed an additional case against Chinamasa, leading to a confrontation with the prosecutor.

Among Chinamasa’s clients is former world boxing champion Simpiwe Vetyeka, whose involvement in a hit-and-run accident resulted in a successful RAF claim, heightening the seriousness of the accusations.

ALSO READ: Falling On Hard Times: Former Highlanders Players In Trouble For Stealing A Cell Phone

The state alleges Chinamasa facilitated clients in their RAF claims while having sole signatory status over multiple bank accounts.

Despite objections, Mntumni stood firm on the validity of the additional charges, shedding light on financial transactions totalling R2.9 million transferred to accounts outside South Africa.

Concerns about Chinamasa’s frequent trips to Zimbabwe and potential flight risk were also raised, intensifying public interest in the ongoing legal proceedings.