Attempt by ‘cattle farmer’ to swindle Zambia Police spokesperson, Hamoonga, of K159,000 may be settled out of court

Dressed sharply in a black suit, Zambia Police spokesperson, Rae Hamoonga, sat quietly in the public gallery of the Lusaka Magistrates’ Court on Monday, his gaze fixed on the proceedings that could determine whether justice will unfold in the courtroom or be concluded with a handshake.

The man accused of swindling him, 36-year-old businessman, Cryford Chuuba of Kasalu Village, stood in the dock as both parties’ lawyers confirmed that discussions were underway for a possible out-of-court settlement in the K159,000 cattle fraud case.

The case, which had been set for trial before Magistrate Amy Masoja, took a turn when State Prosecutor Brian Sianyengo informed the court that negotiations between the complainant and accused were at an advanced stage.

Hamoonga, who is also a key witness, was present and ready to testify, but the State requested an adjournment, citing a pending decision from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

“There is a possibility of settling this matter outside court. The complainant has written to the DPP, and once we receive consent, we will file the necessary application,” said Sianyengo.

Chuuba’s lawyer echoed similar sentiments and urged the court to grant what he described as a “final adjournment.”

“The parties are engaging constructively and believe they can resolve the matter. An adjournment at this stage would save the court’s valuable time and resources,” the defence submitted.

Magistrate Masoja, noting the mutual agreement and in the interest of justice, granted the adjournment and set August 20, 2025, as the new date for mention.

According to the charge, Chuuba allegedly deceived Hamoonga into believing he was selling dozens of cattle between November and December 2024.

Hamoonga reportedly paid K159,000 in good faith, but the livestock was never delivered—as the accused allegedly did not possess any such animals.

WARNING! All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.