An estate agent testified before the Livingstone Magistrate Court, stating that he was appointed to manage the property of Umesh Patel, a Zambian based in the USA, and conducted due diligence with the Ministry of Lands.
Testifying before Magistrate Kahoyi Mushabati was Probby Malyango, a real estate broker from Hilltop Properties Zambia. He mentioned that Mr. Patel, based in the USA but with properties in Zambia, approached him to manage his properties, including one along Sichango Road. Mr. Malyango asserted his credentials as a bonafide real estate agent and a member of the Zambia Institute of Estate Agents.
According to Mr. Malyango, in 2020 and 2021, his company was approached by Mr. Patel, who provided copies of the property titles. After conducting an assessment to verify ownership and signing a management contract, they discovered no issues with Mr. Patel's properties.
However, when attempting to sell a property at the asking price of K2.5 million, they faced challenges. Despite advertising, they received no clients. Mr. Patel later inquired about the property, expressing concerns about rumors of a sale. Mr. Malyango instructed him to investigate, leading to the revelation that Mr. Shal had purchased the property.
Subsequently, Mr. Malyango mentioned Yogesh Chikhalya, an adjacent property owner, who confirmed his plot was not sold. Mr. Patel instructed another search, revealing no issues with the property. Concerned, Mr. Chikhalya reported the matter to the police.
In a separate case, Israel Mushoke, Shah Jayendra Kumar Chianglal, and Lata Jehendra Shah face charges related to fraudulent practices and trespassing in Livingstone. The charges include the alleged procurement of documents through false pretences and criminal trespass. The specific dates of the incidents fall between January 1, 2022, and June 30, 2022. The case has been adjourned to February 28, 2024.
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