Gimboki land scandal: Govt steps in
◆ allocation of stands in Gimboki.
The statement reads: “Notice is hereby given to City of Mutare customers, residents, and stakeholders to be on the look-out for individuals engaging in fraudulent land allocation in the Gimboki area. This notice is being issued in the public interest, in order to protect and safeguard the public against such fraudulent activities.
“Council would like to inform customers, residents and stakeholders that the land in question has not been transferred to any organisation or individual. Council has not engaged any third party or agent to dispose of the land on its behalf. The land in question is designated for education facilities, and is not meant for residential purposes. No change of use has been effected or will be effected on the piece of land.
“Individual home seekers stand to lose out should they buy land from these individuals who are masquerading as authority to parcel out land illegally. Where council resolve to sale, lease or donate land, it shall advertise its intentions to do so in terms of Section 152 of the Urban Council’s Act, Chapter 29:15,” reads the statement.
In July, the Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities warned the public of bogus land barons that are fleecing people and claiming to represent the ministry.
In a statement, the ministry said: “The Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities would like to warn members of the public against unscrupulous companies, trusts, organisations or groups purporting to facilitate the construction of houses for individuals while demanding payments from unsuspecting home-seekers using the ministry’s name to authenticate their fraudulent activities.
“The Ministry would like to categorically distance itself from such people and is treating them as fraudsters who should meet the full wrath of the law.
“Any housing scheme by the ministry will be made known through a public notice in the mainstream media. If anyone has fallen victim to such impostors and has unwittingly participated in such schemes, please make a formal report to your nearest police station.
“We urge members of the public to exercise caution and verify with the ministry or respective local authorities before joining or paying for housing schemes. The Ministry of National Housing and Social Amenities will not be responsible for any losses that may be incurred by individuals who transact with such unscrupulous companies.”