Man Jailed for Forging Title Deeds to Former Minister Dzingai Mutumbuka’s Mansion
Prosper Bizwick (48) has been sentenced to three years in jail for forging title deeds to former Education Minister Dr. Dzingai Mutumbuka’s US$600,000 mansion in Chisipite, Harare, which was fraudulently sold for just US$45,000.
Harare Magistrate Ethel Chichera delivered the verdict yesterday, convicting Bizwick of forgery. One year of the sentence was suspended for five years on the condition that he does not commit a similar offense. His co-accused, Tatenda Wakatama (44), was acquitted.
Bizwick was found guilty of perpetuating fraud by manipulating property documents to facilitate the illegal sale of Mutumbuka’s house. The fraudulent transaction resulted in financial and emotional distress for the former minister and his family.
During the sentencing, Dzikamai Danha, who holds Dr. Mutumbuka’s power of attorney, detailed the financial losses incurred due to the fraud, including over US$131,000 in legal fees, missed rentals, security costs, and damages caused to the house by the fraudulent buyer, Harrison Marange, during eviction.
Danha argued for a strict sentence, stating that Bizwick’s actions had not only caused financial loss but also emotional and psychological distress to the Mutumbuka family.
The case highlights the growing issue of property fraud in Zimbabwe, where criminals exploit legal loopholes to illegally acquire high-value properties.
