Bank Blunder: Elderly Couple in US$41 000 Heist
In a twist that could rival any Hollywood heist movie, an elderly couple from Bulawayo, Mr Frank and Fransisca Netsai Sibanda, found themselves at the centre of a financial fiasco that left Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe scratching their heads and clutching their wallets.
It all started innocently enough. On February 5th, Fransisca, with the help of her daughter Rudo, opened a Silver Banking segment account at Stanbic Bank. Rudo, ever the creative spirit, claimed that her mother worked for her company, Cominergy Construction Mining Energy. With a name like that, who wouldn't believe it?
Fast forward to April 5th, and Fransisca attempted a modest purchase of US$17.95 at National Foods Bulawayo. The transaction failed, but little did she know, this was the beginning of their golden opportunity.
Due to a technical glitch, the bank's reversal settlement through ZimSwitch resulted in a whopping US$40,850.86 being auto-credited to Fransisca's account. Talk about a windfall!
Bank Blunder: Elderly Couple in US$41 000 Heist
With their newfound fortune, the Sibandas did what any self-respecting couple would do – they went on a spending spree! From the bustling markets of Bulawayo to the posh suburbs of Sandton in South Africa, they lived it up, enjoying lavish food and beverages. It was a retirement dream come true, albeit one funded by a bank's blunder.
However, all good things must come to an end. The bank's forensic department eventually caught wind of the embezzlement during a routine investigation. The couple, both aged 65, were arrested and appeared before regional magistrate Mr Joseph Mabeza. They were each remanded out of custody on US$500 bail, facing a staggering 47 counts of theft.
EcoSure Heist: Zaka's Not-So-Dead Daughter Drama
As they await their court date on October 14th, one can't help but wonder if they have any regrets. Perhaps they should have stuck to bingo nights and knitting clubs. But then again, where's the fun in that?
