A Zimbabwean beverage manufacturer reportedly lost more than US$22,000 in an alleged export scam now before the courts.
Tatenda Masawi (33), managing director and founder of UK-based logistics firm MSTATZ Private Limited, is expected to appear in court on April 24, 2026, facing fraud allegations.
Schweppes Zimbabwe, represented by Senior Loss Control Officer Admire Nhenderere, is the complainant in the matter.
According to court documents, Masawi allegedly placed an order with Schweppes Zimbabwe for 1,750 cases of Mazoe Orange Crush valued at US$21,205, claiming the consignment was intended for export to the United Kingdom.
The shipment was inspected and sealed by Zimbabwe Revenue Authority officials under seal number AC021673 before dispatch.
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However, the goods allegedly never reached their intended destination. Prosecutors say the ZIMRA seal was later broken in Harare, after which the truck — reportedly registered in Mozambique — disappeared together with the consignment.
Investigations indicate that Masawi’s representative, Lynne Madongorere, handled the collection and documentation process, while Cooper and Johns Global Logistics, the contracted clearing and forwarding agent, allegedly remained unaware of the developments.
As a result of the incident, Schweppes Zimbabwe incurred a ZIMRA penalty of US$7,478.95, adding to a direct product loss of US$14,915.
The State alleges that Masawi’s conduct was prejudicial to Schweppes Zimbabwe, leading to criminal proceedings.
The matter is pending before the courts.
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