Online Reporter
Senior Reporter
Twenty people have lost more than US$155 000 in a botched car import scheme involving a local company, prompting police to launch a manhunt for its director on fraud charges.
The victims had contracted Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited to import vehicles on their behalf, but the cars were never delivered despite full payments being made.
Police are now pursuing the company’s director, Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, who is wanted in connection with multiple fraud cases dating back to 2022.
In a statement, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said authorities are appealing for information that may lead to her arrest.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, who is being sought in connection with several cases of fraud committed between 2022 and April 2026,” he said.
Comm Nyathi said Mafu, through her company, allegedly marketed vehicle importation services widely across social media, electronic and print platforms.
“The suspect, who is the director of Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited, a company purportedly engaged in the business of importing motor vehicles on behalf of clients, extensively marketed and advertised vehicle importation services through various platforms, including social media, electronic and print media,” he said.
He said the suspect allegedly misrepresented her capacity to source and deliver vehicles within agreed timelines at competitive prices, luring unsuspecting clients.
“Consequently, several Zimbabweans reportedly engaged her and paid varying amounts of money for the purchase and importation of motor vehicles. However, after receiving payment, she allegedly failed to deliver the vehicles,” said Comm Nyathi.
“So far, a total of 20 complainants who were allegedly defrauded of US$155 211 have reported their cases to the police.”
Police have urged anyone with information that could assist in locating the suspect to report to the nearest police station or contact the National Complaints Desk or the CID Commercial Crimes Division Northern Region.
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