Victoria Falls – A chef from Victoria Falls is facing serious legal repercussions after fabricating an armed robbery to conceal the loss of a community savings club’s (mukando/ukutahayelana) funds, amounting to US$2,200, to online betting. The game in question, known locally as Kandege and more widely as Aviator, has become increasingly popular, and controversially so, in Zimbabwe.
Elias Ncube (48), of Mkhosana, stood before the Victoria Falls Magistrates Court accused of contravening Section 180(1)(a) of the Criminal Law (Codification and Reform) Act, which criminalizes the act of knowingly providing false information to a public official. His arrest was triggered by his wife’s testimony, which unraveled the fabricated robbery narrative.
Ncube pleaded guilty, admitting that the supposed robbery on December 18, 2025, where he claimed US$2,200 was stolen, was a complete fabrication. He confessed that he had lost the money, which was entrusted to him for a community savings scheme, while betting on Kandege.
Prosecutor Ms Daphney Ntini presented the state’s case. “On the 18th day of December 2025 at around 0615 hours, the accused person reported a robbery at ZRP Victoria Falls, alleging the theft of USD$2,200. A docket was opened and the case was referred to CID Victoria Falls,” she stated.
The investigation quickly revealed inconsistencies. “The detectives attended the crime scene and interviewed the accused person and his wife, Angela Chuma, who revealed that the accused person had used the money for betting,” said Ms Ntini. This revelation led to Ncube’s arrest.
Aviator game addiction: High stakes, hard falls
This is Aviator, or Kandege, as locals call it — a game of luck that has captured the hearts and hopes of thousands in Zimbabwe. Aviator’s simplicity is deceptive. A virtual plane takes off, and as it climbs, a multiplier increases. Players place bets before takeoff, aiming to cash out before the plane “flies away”. The higher it flies, the more money they win — but if they wait too long, they lose everything. This digital rush of adrenaline is fuelled by timing, instinct, and often, desperation. For some, Aviator has been a ticket out of poverty, offering a glimpse of financial freedom.
Ncube expressed remorse, explaining that the pressure of having lost the funds, intended for a critical purpose, led him to fabricate the robbery story in a moment of panic.
Ncube will be back in court this weekend for sentencing. This case highlights the potential dangers of gambling addiction and the devastating consequences it can have on individuals, families, and communities.
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