Rusape Man Convicted After Spending Money Mistakenly Deposited into his Bank Account

Rusape Man Convicted After Spending US$1,885 and ZWL238,638 Mistakenly Deposited into His Bank Account

A 30-year-old man from Vengere, Rusape, has been sentenced after withdrawing and spending money accidentally deposited into his account.

Garikai Mtangandebvu, who works at a wholesale shop, received a total of US$1,885.45 and ZWL238,638.90 in July 2025 — funds meant for another person with the same name.

Also Read: Woman Arrested For Spending US$38 000 Mistakenly Sent Into Her Account

The Mistaken Deposit

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ), instead of notifying the bank or the rightful owner, he withdrew the funds and used them for personal purposes.

The error only came to light when the legitimate recipient lodged a claim, prompting the company to report the matter to the police. None of the money was recovered from Mtangandebvu.

Sentence Handed Down

The Rusape Magistrates’ Court sentenced Mtangandebvu to 36 months’ imprisonment, with portions suspended under certain conditions.

Six months were suspended on condition of good behaviour, 15 months were suspended pending full restitution to the complainant, and the remaining 15 months were suspended on condition that he completes 525 hours of community service.

NPAZ Issues Public Warning

In a statement, the NPAZ urged the public to verify the source of any funds received in their bank accounts before spending the money. They warned that failing to do so could result in criminal liability.

“The NPAZ would like to remind members of the public that they should verify sources of funds before they spend money received via bank accounts.”

Another Case Highlights Risks of Spending Mistaken Bank Deposits

In a separate case dating back to 2022, a 35-year-old Harare woman, Phionah Riekert, was arrested for spending funds mistakenly deposited into her account.

Riekert allegedly used US$38,000 that had been transferred to her account in error. She faced charges of theft and money laundering.

According to reports, the bank mistakenly credited her account with the sum, and despite being notified of the error, Riekert is said to have withdrawn the funds for personal use.

The matter was subsequently reported to the police, leading to her arrest.