Bulawayo Man Wanted After Six Home Seekers Lose US$83,750 In Property Scam

A Bulawayo man is wanted by police after six home seekers lost US$83,750 and R143,000 in a residential stand scam.

Police have identified the suspect as 40-year-old Elias Mutendi from Sizinda.

Investigators allege that Mutendi targeted people looking for residential properties and presented himself as a middleman who could facilitate stand purchases.

The buyers paid for properties that Mutendi had no authority to sell.

Also Read: Harare Man Arrested For US$580K Property Scam At RGM Airport

Properties Sold Without Owners’ Knowledge

According to ZimLive, the scheme is said to have continued for several years, from 2017 until December 2024.

Police allege that Mutendi marketed residential stands belonging to other property owners.

The owners, however, were allegedly unaware that their properties were being offered to prospective buyers.

The six complainants reportedly parted with a combined US$83,750 and R143,000 after dealing with Mutendi.

Police have since opened investigations and are trying to establish his whereabouts.

Suspect Previously Faced Fraud Allegations

Mutendi is also no stranger to fraud investigations.

Police previously arrested him after receiving information that led officers to Unity Village in Bulawayo’s city centre.

That investigation involved allegations that seven people were defrauded of more than US$47,000 and R143,000.

The earlier case allegedly involved forged paperwork and properties that did not actually exist.

Police said the money involved in that case had not been recovered.

Police Issue Warning To Property Buyers

The latest case has prompted police to warn prospective homeowners against handing over money before establishing that a property and its seller are genuine.

Bulawayo provincial police spokesperson Inspector Abednico Ncube said buyers should independently confirm ownership before entering into property transactions.

He also advised residents to approach the relevant city council to verify whether stands and houses being offered for sale are legitimate.

The warning comes as fraudulent property deals continue to expose home seekers to significant financial losses.