A 30-year-old man from Vengere, Rusape, has been sentenced to 36 months in prison for unlawfully spending money that was mistakenly deposited into his bank account.
Garikai Mtangandebvu, who works at a wholesale shop, received USD 1,885.45 and ZWL 238,638.90 in July 2025 funds meant for another individual with the same name.
According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) Mtangandebvu, instead of alerting the bank he withdrew the money and used it for personal gain.
“When the legitimate recipient made a claim, the company discovered the error and reported the matter to the police,” the court heard. No money was recovered from Mtangandebvu.
The court sentenced him to 36 months imprisonment with six months suspended on condition of good behaviour, 15 months suspended on condition of full restitution to the complainant, and 15 months suspended provided he completes 525 hours of community service.
“Members of the public should verify sources of funds before they spend money received via bank accounts,” NPAZ said in a statement.
