CHIVAYO CAR RECIPIENTS FACE LEGAL STORM 25-YEAR JAIL WARNING
HARARE: A growing controversy over luxury vehicles gifted by businessman Wicknell Chivayo has taken a dramatic legal turn after Zimbabwean human-rights lawyer Doug Coltart warned that some recipients could potentially face prosecution under the country’s money-laundering laws.
Coltart made the warning on X on Thursday, September 24, 2026, following the circulation of a compilation listing dozens of vehicles reportedly handed out by Chivayo between 2023 and 2026.
“In my professional legal opinion, everyone who has received one of those cars has committed a criminal offence,” Coltart wrote, adding that recipients could face up to 25 years in prison and fines of up to US$500,000.
He directed members of the public to sections 8(3)–8(6) of Zimbabwe’s Money Laundering and Proceeds of Crime Act. Section 8(3) concerns acquiring, using or possessing property while knowing or suspecting, at the time of receipt, that it represents proceeds of crime. The legislation allows knowledge or suspicion to be inferred from objective circumstances.
Among the musicians and public figures reported by media outlets to have received vehicles from Chivayo are Jah Prayzah, Alick Macheso, Sulumani Chimbetu, Sandra Ndebele, Killer T, Mambo Dhuterere, Mai Dhuterere, Nicholas Zakaria, Jeys Marabini, Andy Muridzo, Mathias Mhere, Diana Samkange, Mai Charamba, Leonard Zhakata, Mechanic Manyeruke, Dorcas Moyo, Sniper Storm, Jah Master, Daisy Mtukudzi, Bhutisi, Kapfupi, Peter Ndlovu, Moses Chunga, Charles Mabika, Mai Chisamba, DJ Towers, Enzo Ishall and Reuben Barwe.
The reported vehicles range from Mercedes-Benz models and Range Rovers to Toyota Fortuners, Hiluxes, Aquas and a BMW X6 M. Chivayo has also continued making high-profile vehicle gifts in 2026, including reported gifts to Feli Nandi and Ex-Q.