The ongoing trial of Harare businessman and alleged loan shark Patrick “Chimpa” Mutenha has been postponed to July 29, 2025, after his legal team requested more time to prepare a defense against fresh evidence submitted by the state.
During proceedings at the Harare Magistrates Court, Mutenha’s lawyers argued that they had only recently received additional state papers, which include critical documents from the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU) as well as new statements from the CID Vehicle Theft Squad.
The defense team said the new material significantly strengthens the prosecution’s case and requires thorough analysis before proceeding to trial. The court granted the request and set a new date for continuation.
Mutenha is facing serious charges of extortion through intimidation and name-dropping, as well as violating Section 6 of the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe’s Microfinance Act, which regulates lending activities and licensing.
The postponement allows the defense to adequately respond to the expanded evidence base, while the state continues to build its case with support from key institutions such as the FIU and law enforcement agencies.
The matter will resume on July 29, 2025, with more key witnesses expected to testify, including representatives from the RBZ and experts from the CID Cyber Forensics Division.
