Security Guard Faces Money Laundering Charges in Major Robbery Case
A security guard, believed to be connected to a high-profile $4 million armed robbery at Ecobank last year, appeared in the Bulawayo magistrates’ court on Friday. The individual, Sibonginkosi Sibanda, 49, was charged with money laundering and remanded in custody until July 7 for a bail hearing. Initially, he was also charged with armed robbery alongside Thokozani Zulu, who was released on the same day.
Sibanda’s legal representation came from Prince Butshe Dube of Mathonsi Ncube Law Chambers. During the court proceedings, an investigation officer stated that Sibanda was arrested on July 2 at his residence. The officer emphasized that bail should not be granted, citing the severity of the charge and the fact that the Hino truck involved in the case had not yet been recovered. The officer also claimed that Sibanda might attempt to dispose of the vehicle.
The investigation officer further mentioned that individuals who sold property to Sibanda would serve as state witnesses. However, during cross-examination, Dube raised concerns about the accuracy of the CR code used in the case, suggesting it was incorrectly assigned and not related to money laundering. The investigation officer admitted there was a typing error in the CR code.
Dube questioned whether the investigation officer had title deeds for Sibanda’s properties and whether the officer intended to charge Sibanda’s wife, given that she had a contract with Bakers Inn for the use of the truck. He challenged the evidence linking the vehicle to Sibanda, especially since it was registered under another name.
The investigation officer responded that they were still tracking the registration number through Zimra and the importation process. Dube then questioned the fairness of detaining someone without sufficient evidence, asking if the officer was serious about the charges.
The investigation officer remained silent on the matter. Dube argued that the reason for returning the truck could not be used as grounds for the trial, as there was no direct link to Sibanda. He pointed out that money laundering is a commercial crime requiring specialized expertise and noted that the investigation officer was not part of the relevant department.
The officer agreed with Dube’s assessment, acknowledging that he lacked the capacity to investigate the matter properly. Dube concluded by requesting a $100 bail for Sibanda, stating that there was no valid reason to deny him bail and that his client would not evade any trial.
After cross-examining the investigation officer, Dube asserted that there was no tangible evidence to hold his client responsible for the charge. The case continues as the court prepares for the next hearing on July 7.
