Harare | In a controversial turn of events, approximately 500 Indian nationals brought into Zimbabwe by Dubai-based billionaire businessman Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk have been deported by Zimbabwean authorities. The deportations, which occurred during the first half of the year, were reportedly linked to online sports betting activities, leading to questions about Mulk’s credibility and business practices.
Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk, known for his involvement in cricket promotion and as the chairman of the T10 League, has been making headlines for his extensive investments in Zimbabwe, including the construction of a US$500 million high-tech park in Harare. However, recent developments have cast a shadow over his ventures in the country.
It has emerged that some of the individuals brought into Zimbabwe by Mulk are wanted individuals in New Delhi, raising concerns about the vetting process and Mulk’s business ethics. Moreover, Mulk’s alleged disputes with Nigerian authorities and businessmen have added to the scrutiny surrounding his activities.
Questions about Mulk’s net worth, rumored to be above US$1 billion, have been raised by economists, analysts, and fund managers in India, Dubai, and Pakistan. The allegations of questionable business practices and ethics have sparked widespread debate about the legitimacy of Mulk’s investments and partnerships.
Mulk’s association with businessman and investor Tempter Tungwarara has also come under scrutiny. While Tungwarara has defended Mulk as a businessman and investor, concerns persist about the transparency and legality of Mulk’s operations in Zimbabwe.
Efforts to obtain comments from Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Home Affairs and Immigration have been unsuccessful, as the ministry has repeatedly redirected inquiries to different offices. Similarly, attempts to reach Mulk for comment have been fruitless.
The deportations of Indian nationals involved in online betting activities have been attributed to collaborative efforts by Zimbabwe’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration officials, and anti-corruption task forces. The crackdown reflects the government’s commitment to curbing illegal activities and promoting transparency in the country.
Meanwhile, the mastermind behind the online betting app, Sourabh Chandrakar, has been implicated in a multi-billion-dollar gambling racket spanning multiple countries. Chandrakar’s alleged involvement in illegal gambling operations has raised serious concerns about the extent of his network and the methods used to evade law enforcement.
As investigations into the matter continue, the spotlight remains on Nawab Shaji Ul Mulk and his purported business dealings in Zimbabwe. The unfolding saga underscores the complexities and challenges of foreign investment in emerging markets, highlighting the importance of due diligence and regulatory oversight in safeguarding national interests.
