By 
Dennis Madondo, previously acquitted of involvement in the 2021 US$2.7 million ZB Bank armed robbery, is now facing charges of money laundering. The trial, which began yesterday before regional magistrate Mr. Taurai Manuwere, has attracted significant public attention due to its connection to one of Zimbabwe’s largest cash in transit robberies.
The prosecution claims that Madondo used the proceeds of criminal activities to purchase a luxury vehicle and was found in possession of large sums of cash. According to the state, Madondo bought a silver Mercedes Benz for US$9,000 and was later found with US$62,500 in cash.
The State allege that Madondo either knew or should have suspected that the funds were tied to illicit activities and accuse him of attempting to conceal their criminal origins. However, through his lawyer, Madondo has denied the charges, asserting that they are merely a rehash of the robbery case for which he was acquitted. His defense maintains that there is no direct evidence connecting the funds to illegal actions.
By Ruvarashe Gora
The case has drawn renewed focus on the ZB Bank heist, which remains one of Zimbabwe’s most high-profile robberies. The prosecution is expected to present more evidence in the coming days as the trial continues.
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