By Sithandweyinkosi Mpofu

Three Kwekwe suspected money changers appeared in court today before Kwekwe Magistrate Mildred Matuvi facing charges of soliciting US Dollars and possession of bank cards not registered in their names at Bata and OK Supermarket on 22 April 2024.

The three, Memory Sibindi, Hilda Chimeya, and Angela Mutemo were remanded in custody until 30 April 2024.

The State opposed bail and a hearing was set for tomorrow.

The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) represented by  Prosecutor Nyasha Hloka in opposing bail said the trio might interfere with investigations if granted bail.

NPA said the illegal money-changing business the trio was arrested for is their source of income hence if granted bail they will continue with the act.

The State also said the offense causes great economic danger, inflation, and stunted development so the economic safety of the public is at risk hence the opposition to bail.

The State said the offense is a serious one as it comes at a time when the government just recently introduced a new currency the Zimbabwe Gold (ZiG) in an attempt to tackle inflation.

According to State papers, Sibindi was arrested by police officers after she was allegedly found soliciting customers who needed to change their US dollars to the local currency. When the police approached her they searched her and found US$720, ZAR8 520, and various cards including Cabs, ZB, and FBC Bank debit cards.

Chimeya was allegedly found with US$35, ZAR100, OneMoney, and NMB Bank debit cards at Bata pavements.

Mutemo was allegedly found in possession of US$1 442, ZAR390, two OneMoney cards, NMB, FBC, and ZB Bank debit cards.