Story by Yolanda Moyo
TWO suspects who were allegedly involved in the US$4 million Ecobank money heist in Bulawayo last year have appeared in court facing theft and money laundering charges.
The duo, Thokozani Zulu and Sibonginkosi Sibanda appeared at the Bulawayo Tredgold Magistrates Court this Friday, and Zulu was acquitted of the charges.
However, Sibanda, who is a security guard from a local security company, was remanded in custody on charges of allegedly facilitating the dramatic 149-second heist last year.
According to court documents, Sibanda allegedly used the proceeds of the cash heist to buy a house, which he registered in his name, two houses registered in his daughters names, two vehicles registered in his wife’s name, and a homestead in Insiza, registered under his name.
The court also heard that the accused registered an investment company under the directorship of his wife and daughters.
Sibanda is expected back in court on Monday for bail ruling.
Meanwhile, a Bulawayo High Court Judge has ordered a local security company, Securico, to pay US$675 000 to How Mine for gold lost during a robbery with interest at a rate of five percent per annum from October 4, 2022, until full payment is made.
The court ruled that both parties were aware of the risks associated with transporting gold, and that Securico’s failure to use an armoured truck or to equip its guards with sufficient communication tools amounted to negligence.
The gold, weighing 11.95kg, was lost during a brazen heist in October 2022, prompting How Mine to sue the security company for negligence and breach of contract.
