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Message: [QUOTE="Munyaradzi Mafaro, post: 52042, member: 636"] Court proceedings began yesterday against two men accused of operating a fraudulent investment platform that cost victims more than US$364,647. Jao Zhao Jiatong and William Chui entered not guilty pleas to fraud charges related to the E-Creator scheme. Defense attorneys Moffat Makuvatsine and Claude Bare represent the defendants respectively. Prosecutors plan to call celebrity witnesses Cleopatra Tarisai Munetsiva and Admire Mushambi during the trial. The case centers on allegations that the pair masterminded a pyramid scheme targeting unsuspecting investors. Jao maintains complete innocence and denies any involvement with E-Creator Electronic Commerce Private Limited. The defendant claims his connection to the case stems from a casual airport meeting with an individual named Thomas. He asserts limited English proficiency prevented communication with prosecution witnesses and expresses shock at his arrest. Authorities found no incriminating evidence on his person or electronic devices according to his defense. Jao has remained in custody since 2023 awaiting trial proceedings. Prosecutor Loveti Muringwa alleges the defendants created their fraudulent platform in 2023 with deliberate intent to deceive investors. The scheme promised substantial returns on investments while using EcoCash mobile payment systems to facilitate transactions. State evidence suggests Chui operated a digital marketing business that helped convert victim deposits into cryptocurrency. Billy later joined the operation to handle transactions when the primary defendants became unavailable. Financial records show approximately US$250,000 moved through an EcoCash agent controlled by Blessing Julias. [/QUOTE]

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