Businessman Accused of Duping Wife of Gold Mafia Boss of US$1 Million Freed by High Court

High Court Clears Businessman Accused of Defrauding Gold Mafia Boss’s Wife of U$1 Million

A Harare businessman accused of defrauding Leigh Ann Patricia Rudland, wife of alleged gold mafia boss Simon Rudland, of US$1 million, has been acquitted by the High Court. Luka Ignatiis Fabris was freed after judges overturned his conviction.

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Acquittal on Appeal

Fabris and his company, Spartan Security, were previously found guilty by Magistrate Feresi Chakanyuka.

The charges stemmed from allegations that Fabris had conned Rudland into investing in a cattle ranching business, promising her two percent returns on her total investment every month.

Zimlive reports that High Court Judges Happias Zhou and Benjamin Chikowero dismissed the conviction.

“The appeal is allowed. The conviction is quashed, and the sentence has been set aside,” the ruling stated. “Spartan Security is found not guilty and acquitted, and so is Lucas Fabris.”

Prosecutors claimed Rudland transferred ZW$4,800,000 (equivalent to US$1 million in 2019) to Fabris’ account, expecting returns in USD. After receiving only US$540,000, she pursued legal action when further payments ceased.

Defence Denies Wrongdoing

Fabris maintained his innocence throughout the trial, arguing the deal was merely an exchange of funds. He contended the transaction involved converting ZW$4.8 million in electronic funds into cash, with Spartan deducting one percent as a fee.

He said, “We agreed to convert the money into cash. Inflation reduced its value before the last tranche was collected.” Fabris asserted that Rudland sought compensation due to inflationary losses, which Spartan’s directors rejected, deeming it unjust enrichment.

Fabris further stated, “This was a civil matter, but Rudland chose the criminal justice route.”

No Evidence to Prove Underpayment

The High Court highlighted the lack of evidence from the State proving Rudland received only US$540,000. During trial, Fabris argued he had paid her in full and owed no further money. The judges found the State failed to demonstrate critical elements of the alleged crime, leading to the acquittal.

Despite the outcome, Rudland insisted she was owed compensation, stating the agreement stipulated payment in USD. However, the High Court’s decision stands, bringing an end to the case against Fabris and Spartan Security.