Harare — The trial of a former Saltlakes Holdings general manager accused of swindling the crop-contracting firm of 50 000 litres of diesel worth US$44 000 opened yesterday at the Harare Magistrates' Courts with Simbarashe Muchengeti (37) being formally charged and denying the allegations.

Regional magistrate Mr Morgen Nemadire deferred the trial to March 12.

Muchengeti, who was supposed to supply fuel to tobacco farmers contracted by Saltlakes for the 2009/10 season, allegedly received US$44 000 in his account, but did not deliver any petroleum.

Through his lawyer Mr Ringisai Mapondera of Mapondera and Company, Muchengeti denied the charges saying his ex-employer was "fixing" him.

In his defence outline, Muchengeti said the charges were trumped up after he had a fallout with his employer who accused him of stealing US$1,5 million.

Muchengeti argues that when he was granted bail, the firm raised fresh charges.

Two witnesses testified for the State yesterday before the court adjourned. Prosecutor Mr Michael Reza alleges that the offence was committed sometime last year when Muchengeti was employed by Saltlakes as a general manager for the tobacco division.

The court heard that on September 3 Saltlakes wanted to purchase 50 000 litres of diesel to distribute to farmers it had contracted.

Saltlakes gave the contract to Muchengeti to supply the company with the required quantity.

Two days later, it is alleged, Muchengeti confirmed the transaction had been successful and undertook to deliver the diesel within 48 hours.

The company reportedly secured storage at Comoil Graniteside anticipating deliveries but nothing was delivered until.

A police report was made leading to his arrest on fraud allegations.

The total prejudice suffered is US$44 000 and only US$5 808 was recovered

By The Herald