Harare Businessman Scammed of US$100K by ‘Magician’ Promising Triple Returns
A Harare businessman has found himself in a financial nightmare after losing US$100 000 to a so-called magician who promised to triple his money. The scheme, which seemed too good to be true, ended with the businessman counting significant losses and the alleged fraudster, Jean Piere Kingombe, facing charges in court.
“A Fool and His Money”
The 49-year-old suspect from the Democratic Republic of Congo appeared before a Harare magistrate this week, charged with fraud. The court heard that Kingombe had convinced the businessman, whose identity remains undisclosed, that he possessed magical powers capable of multiplying money.
ZBC reports that according to the prosecution, the two were introduced last year, and a demonstration was arranged to prove Kingombe’s abilities. The accused reportedly transformed US$10 into US$30, which he then shared with the complainant, earning his trust and setting the stage for the larger scam.
“The Big Con”
Emboldened by the successful demonstration, the businessman handed over US$100 000 to Kingombe, believing it would be tripled within a day. The accused performed what appeared to be a ritual, then handed the businessman a wrapped package, instructing him to open it after 24 hours.
When the anxious 24-hour wait was over, the businessman unwrapped the package only to find not a fortune but worthless paper. Realising he had been duped, he attempted to track down Kingombe, who had gone into hiding immediately after the exchange.
“Justice in the Making”
The scam came to light when Kingombe was finally apprehended last week. He has since been remanded in custody, with a bail hearing set for Wednesday.
Detectives involved in the case have warned the public to be wary of such schemes.
“Scammers often prey on individuals’ desires for quick money. Always verify the legitimacy of any financial proposition,” advised a police detective.
The businessman, now a cautionary tale, has chosen to remain anonymous, but his story underscores a universal truth: if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is.
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