Tendai Muererwa
MUTARE-In a decisive crackdown on the trade of counterfeit automotive parts in Mutare, Magistrate Honest Musiiwa handed down sentences to three women caught selling fraudulent goods under the guise of a reputable brand.
The legal proceedings, led by prosecutor Sandra Mlambo, detailed a coordinated sting operation that took place on the morning of April 21, 2026.
​The State’s case revealed that at approximately 11:00 AM, detectives accompanied by Emick Mupfumbira—a loss control officer representing the complainant, GUD (Pty) Ltd—raided three separate motor spares shops in the city. The operation targeted the sale of counterfeit oil and diesel filters branded with the GUD trademark, a practice that poses significant risks to vehicle engines and consumer safety.
​The accused, all employed as sales ladies at their respective shops, were identified as, Tracy Zvakavapano (32) of Super Master Motor Spares, where 392 counterfeit filters were recovered. Primerose Binungu (28) of Trust Motor Spares, found in possession of 99 counterfeit filters and Nyasha Chaapano (32) of R. Motor Spares, where 81 counterfeit filters were seized.
​In total, authorities recovered 572 illicit units, which were held as exhibits.
During the appearance before Magistrate Musiiwa, it was noted that the three women were first time offenders. While the court acknowledged their clean records, the gravity of the offense acting unlawfully by distributing unauthorized and potentially damaging automotive products required a firm judicial response.
​The Magistrate sentenced each of the women to six months of imprisonment. However, to balance justice with the opportunity for rehabilitation, the court opted for a suspended sentence structure. One month was suspended for a period of five years, contingent on the condition that the defendants do not commit a similar offense involving dishonesty or counterfeit trade. The remaining five months were suspended on the condition that each woman completes 175 hours of community service.
​This ruling serves as a stern warning to local retailers, the convenience of selling counterfeit goods carries heavy legal consequences and the protection of intellectual property and consumer rights remains a priority for the Mutare judiciary.
