Women’s Affairs Minister Mutsvangwa’s Son Neville Denied Bail After Dramatic Police Showdown
Women’s Affairs Minister Monica Mutsvangwa’s son, Neville Mutsvangwa, has been denied bail after blocking the police from entering his home. The incident occurred when law enforcement officials attempted to arrest him on charges of illegal foreign currency trading and money laundering.
Joint Charges and Additional Offense
Mutsvangwa is facing multiple charges, including illegal foreign currency trading and money laundering. He is jointly charged with Simbarashe Tichingana and Ellis Majachani. Additionally, he faces a separate charge for breaching the Telecommunications Act.
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Defense Argument
During the court proceedings, Neville’s lawyer, Jacqueline Sande, argued that her client had not committed any offense. Sande maintained that his possession of visa cards did not prove involvement in cash dealings. She further emphasized that the cards belonged to the banks, which have the authority to disclose transaction details.
“Mere possession of bank cards is not proof enough that someone is dealing in cash. It is not even illegal,” stated Sande.
The defense also highlighted that Neville primarily used free funds to purchase goods for resale and did not engage in cash transactions or money laundering.
Awaiting Ruling
High Court judge, Justice Esther Maremba, is set to deliver her ruling on Wednesday regarding Neville’s bail application. The decision will determine whether he will be released from custody until the conclusion of the trial.
Flight Risk Concerns
Magistrate Mangosi expressed concerns that Neville, being the son of a minister, posed a flight risk due to his access to free funds. The magistrate cited the record of Neville hindering the police’s attempts to arrest him as evidence. As a result, Neville was remanded in custody until May 30.
