Financial Crimes Court Judge Violet Chipao has directed the state and the defence in the bus depots case to submit written submissions by 5th March and 6th May 2024, respectively.

The case involving businessperson and National Bus Services Chairperson Leston Mulli returned to court this morning.

“The court has given directions that the matter is closed. The state has asked for 30 days to present their written submissions and the closure date is 6 March. Thereafter, we shall submit our own – we have been given 60 days- that’s on 6 May and after that, we will be required to give oral submissions on 9 May 2024 just wrapping up the issues,” said Gilbert Khonyongwa, lawyer representing Mulli.

Government, through Attorney General Thabo Chakaka Nyirenda, wants to recover about 8 billion Kwacha from National Bus Services Limited which is money believed to have been realised from rentals, depot fees and lodge payments during the period Mulli was operating facilities.

The state is accusing Mulli of taking over and operating the facilities illegally.