The High Court has ordered the release and confiscation of former legislator Jokwe Nyimbuzia’s and Mayor Justice Wadyagena’s properties seized and confiscated by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) following his arrest on fraud and money laundering charges.
Wadyajena, who was accused of embezzling funds from a Zimbabwe cotton company meant for baling cables, was given the go-ahead to acquire 25 transport trucks and two luxury cars.
ZACC confiscated the trucks after his arrest amid accusations that they were obtained fraudulently.
The High Court of Zimbabwe delivered the ruling on Wednesday with Wadiagina’s lawyer, Mr Oliver Marwa, outlining the next course of action.
“The High Court has ruled that the continued seizure of our client is unlawful, and has ordered that ZACC or anyone in possession of that property immediately release the property. If they have any other outstanding issue, they can move forward, as this does not constitute an impediment to investigation or prosecution.” “It is an important victory in the battle against my client and the state.”
This ruling comes after Wadiadina and his co-defendant succeeded in submitting a request to be released from pretrial detention last year, as the judge presiding over the court indicated that there were unnecessary delays in completing the investigations.
The state will proceed with arraignment if it intends to pursue criminal charges. zbc
