A Harare resident is seeking justice after allegedly falling victim to a fraudulent transaction involving a Konica Minolta Bizhub printer, purchased from a company owned by Divine Magaya.
The victim, who wishes to remain anonymous for legal reasons, claims he was defrauded of $1,200 after paying for a printer in March 2023, which was never delivered as promised. He says he made the payment on March 2, 2023, for a fully operational machine. However, the printer he received was defective and unusable. Upon raising the issue with the company, he was told that the printer would be replaced, but with an unexpected condition.
Instead of a direct replacement, the victim was informed that the substitute printer was an “upgraded” model, requiring an additional payment to cover the difference. Trusting the company’s assurances, he paid the extra amount on April 17, 2023, but never received the promised replacement.
Despite repeated inquiries, the victim alleges that both Divine Magaya and his company have failed to provide an explanation or deliver the printer. Frustrated and feeling misled, the victim reported the matter to the police, but claims no action has been taken against the alleged fraudsters.
The case raises concerns about consumer protection in Zimbabwe and the effectiveness of legal recourse for individuals who fall prey to dishonest business practices. “If businesses can take people’s money and get away with it, what protection do consumers really have?” the victim questioned.
Having exhausted informal options, the victim is now considering legal action to either recover his funds or force the company to fulfill its promise. The case highlights the troubling issue of businesses operating with impunity and taking advantage of vulnerable consumers.
Divine Magaya has not yet responded to the allegations. Consumer rights advocates are calling for immediate action from authorities to address fraudulent practices and protect the rights of consumers in Zimbabwe’s business sector.
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