A 27-year-old cashier employed by Send Money Home (Private) Limited trading as Mukuru Money Transfers has been convicted by the Gokwe Magistrates’ Court after unlawfully converting company funds entrusted to her for customer cash disbursements.
In a detailed statement yesterday, the the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ) confirmed that Masciline Chihambakwe was found guilty of misappropriating cash floats and additional funds intended for money transfer transactions at Chireya Business Centre between 28 November and 11 December 2025.
“The Gokwe Magistrates’ Court has convicted Masciline Chihambakwe (27), a cashier employed by Send Money Home (Pvt) Ltd trading as Mukuru Money Transfers at Chireya Business Centre, after she unlawfully converted company funds entrusted to her for cash disbursement to customers,” the NPAZ said.
According to prosecutors, Chihambakwe was initially entrusted with a cash float and later received additional top-ups meant to facilitate smooth customer transactions. A routine inspection revealed she was handling substantial sums of money.
“Between the 28th of November and the 11th of December 2025, the offender was entrusted with company cash floats and received additional cash top-ups through Safeguard Security Company to facilitate Mukuru money transfer transactions.
A routine spot check on the 28th of November confirmed that she held a cash float of USD8,599 and ZAR4,300. She subsequently received additional cash consignments amounting to USD25,000 and ZAR5,000,” the NPAZ said.
The prosecution said the accused failed to account for the funds and instead diverted them for personal use, leading to a significant financial loss for the company.
“Instead of using the funds for their intended purpose, the offender diverted the money for personal benefit,” the NPAZ said.
The irregularities were uncovered following a follow-up audit conducted by the company’s management.
“A spot check conducted by the company’s Midlands Regional Manager on the 11th of December 2025 uncovered a significant cash shortfall, leading to investigations,” the NPAZ said.
After her arrest, the accused reportedly assisted investigators in recovering part of the stolen funds, including property purchased using the proceeds of crime.
“Following her arrest, the offender made indications to the police and led investigators to a shop at Chireya Business Centre that she had established using part of the stolen money. Merchandise valued at approximately USD2,500 was recovered from the premises,” the NPAZ said.
The court established that the total prejudice suffered by the complainant amounted to USD15,795 and ZAR4,300.
Chihambakwe was sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment. However, part of the sentence was suspended on condition of good behaviour and restitution.
“The Court sentenced the offender to nine (9) years’ imprisonment. Of the sentence, six months were suspended for five years on the usual conditions of good behaviour, while the remaining eight years and six months were suspended on condition that she pays restitution of USD15,795 and ZAR4,300 forthwith to the victim,” the Prosecution noted.
Meanwhile, the NPAZ reiterated its commitment to ensuring accountability in financial crimes, particularly those involving entrusted funds, warning that abuse of trust positions in financial service operations will continue to attract custodial sentences and strict restitution orders.
