Harare entrepreneur Eng. Shingai Levison Muringi and his company Last Kings Holdings (Pvt) Ltd have been cleared of money laundering charges after the State formally withdrew the case before plea. The decision was handed down by Harare Regional Magistrate Mrs. Jesse Kufa, marking a significant legal victory for the youthful CEO and his petroleum trading firm.
The charges stemmed from a 2024 commercial dispute with Energy Park (Pvt) Ltd involving a fuel transaction worth USD170,000.00. Muringi and his company were accused of receiving petroleum products, selling them, and failing to remit payment. A police report filed at Milton Park Police Station led to his arrest and subsequent placement on remand for fraud and money laundering.
During bail proceedings, defense lawyer Mr. Claude Bare presented bank statements showing that Last Kings Holdings had paid Energy Park a total of USD242,000.00—exceeding the amount allegedly owed. The defense argued that the case was rooted in fuel cartel conflicts aimed at undermining Last Kings Holdings’ growth in the industry.
Investigators had also alleged that Muringi used proceeds of crime to purchase a Toyota Fortuner GD6. However, documentation revealed the vehicle was owned by Legit Car Rental and had been hired for use during the 2024 Zimbabwe International Trade Fair. The discovery prompted the State to withdraw the money laundering charge.
With the withdrawal confirmed, focus now shifts to the remaining fraud charge, which appears increasingly weak. The defense maintains that all payments were legitimate and verifiable, contradicting earlier claims of falsified proof of payment. The same bank records had been obtained by police during their initial investigation.
The matter is set to return to court on 16 October 2025, when the State is expected to present its final position on the fraud count. Mr. Bare continues to represent Muringi and Last Kings Holdings, while Mr. Kaseke appears for the State.
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