Zimpapers Logo

Prosper Dembedza

Herald Correspondent

THE fraud trial of Harare building contractor George Katsimberis has been deferred to October 17,  as Deputy Prosecutor General Mr Michael Reza is attending a workshop outside the country.

Katsimberis is facing a charge of defrauding Pokugara Properties of US$1 million in a botched deal after he built a showroom in Borrowdale using an unapproved building plan, resulting in the structure being destroyed by the Harare City Council.  Two weeks ago, the builder claimed that his plans were genuine as they carried a signature and stamp. 

Leading evidence through his lawyer Advocate Tinomudaishe Chinyoka in his application for referral to the Constitutional Court, Katsimberis said he needed the State to furnish him with further particulars which he said were very important for his defence.

He added that there was no letter from the City of Harare ordering the demolitions.

During the previous sittings, the builder accused Mr Reza of receiving financial inducements from the complainant.

 Asked by Advocate Chinyoka whether he had evidence proving that Mr Reza was paid to prosecute his fraud case, Katsimberis made a u-turn saying he had no evidence linking Mr Reza with the allegations.