Illegal Forex Dealer Misses Wedding Due to Custody

Lardmio Ruvisi, one of the 65 individuals accused of being involved in illegal foreign currency trading, was unable to attend his wedding on Saturday as he was remanded in custody pending a bail application scheduled for today.

Ruvisi, a resident of Warren Park 1, explained to the National Prosecuting Authority vetting office that his arrest on Independence Day came at a time when he was seeking United States dollars to finalize his wedding preparations. Unfortunately, he was apprehended along with 64 other suspected dealers during a blitz operation conducted in Harare.

According to the prosecution, a team of detectives was actively targeting illegal forex traders on Independence Day. The team conducted surveillance at the intersection of Sir Seretse Khama Street (formerly Angwa Street) and George Silundika Avenue when they observed Ruvisi engaging in a foreign currency transaction.

Approaching Ruvisi and Bianca Masvaure, the detectives requested Ruvisi to transfer Buddie airtime valued at ZiG130, equivalent to US$10, to Masvaure’s phone. However, Ruvisi allegedly failed to complete the airtime transfer, leading to his subsequent arrest.

Today, Ruvisi, along with the 64 other accused dealers, is set to appear in court for separate charges related to illegal forex trading.

This incident sheds light on the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to combat illegal foreign currency trading in the country. The Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe has implemented various measures to stabilize the forex market and discourage illicit activities.

Ruvisi serves as a stark reminder of the consequences faced by individuals involved in illegal forex trading. If found guilty, the accused could face penalties under the country’s laws governing foreign currency exchange.