Harare regional magistrate Jesse Kufa on Monday denied bail to Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, founder of Hezy Motors Logistics, who faces fraud charges over an alleged vehicle importation scam involving 79 complainants and nearly US$1 million.
In dismissing her bail application, Kufa said Mafu’s circumstances differed from her co-accused, who had already been granted bail. “She was on the run, unlike her accomplices. She has proved that she can abscond if granted bail. Her accomplices were employees, and she is the director,” the magistrate said.
Prosecutors allege that between 2022 and the present, Mafu marketed vehicle importation services through social media and other platforms, falsely claiming she could source and deliver vehicles within specific timeframes. Clients paid deposits and full purchase prices, but the vehicles were never delivered.
The State says complainants suffered actual prejudice of US$624,958.96 and ZiG1,275,878.35, with nothing recovered. Mafu remains in custody awaiting trial.
