Beware of fraudsters, public warned

Ellah Mukwati Herald Reporter
THE Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment has warned the public to be on the lookout for fraudsters who present themselves as the ministry’s head office staff before offering loan processing services at a fee, an official has said.

Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment public relations officer Ms Sikhanyisiwe Ncube urged the public to report such suspects to the police.

“The attention of stakeholders and the general public is drawn to the fact that some persons have fraudulently been representing themselves as head office staff of the Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment and offering loan processing services at a fee,” said Ms Ncube.

“Please note that the Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment and its parastatals have nothing to do with the aforesaid fraudulent persons.

“The public is advised that these people do not belong to the ministry or Government.”

Ms Ncube said efforts were being made to establish the identities of the fraudsters and warned the public from being lured to part with their money.

“We are working towards establishing the identities of these people and would like the public to help us. We also want to put emphasis on the fact that we do not have such agents,” she said.

“Some of these incidences were reported in Chegutu and Victoria Falls last year.

“We are sure there are still other cases that have not been picked and we are working in conjunction with the police, hence we urge the public to help with any information that will help in the uncovering of the bogus individuals.”

Ms Ncube said people are being asked to pay fees ranging from $100 to $300.

“The bogus agents are demanding administration and loan processing fees payable through EcoCash, Telecash and Nettcash,” she said.

The Ministry of Youth, Indigenisation and Economic Empowerment has been assisting the youth with funding over the years but does not have any agents as the ministry operates directly with the public.