Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
POLICE have raised alarm over an increase in fraud cases in which criminals are using social media platforms to lure people into fake car importation schemes and fraudulent property deals.
Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, spokesperson for the CID, said the CID Commercial Crimes Division has arrested Caution Madiro Chikonamombe (31) of Hatfield, Harare, in connection with three fake car importation cases.
“Investigations have established that the accused person portrayed himself as an agent who could facilitate the importation of vehicles on behalf of clients,” said Det-Insp Muteweri.
She said in October last year, Chikonamombe received US$9,000 from someone who wanted to import a Honda Grace. He allegedly claimed the vehicle had been shipped but it was never delivered.Det-Insp Muteweri said on January 29, this year, Chikonamombe allegedly duped another complainant of US$5,000.
Police say he demanded the payment of that money as deposit for the importation of a car.The complainant realised he had been duped after the suspect failed to deliver the vehicle.
“In another case, the suspect prejudiced a complainant of US$12,100,” Det-Insp Muteweri said.
“The suspect has since been arrested and arraigned before the Harare Magistrates’ Court.”
The CID Commercial Crimes Division also arrested Desmond Rutsito (42) of Madokero, Harare, and Leeroy Manyange (28) of Zengeza, Chitungwiza, over fraudulent deals involving the purported sale of non-existent commercial stands in Southerton, Aspindale and Glenroy Township.
Det-Insp Muteweri said the complainants suffered an actual prejudice of US$151,000.
Police continue to urge the public to exercise due diligence before making any payments for goods and services.
“Any suspicious transactions should be reported quickly to the nearest police station,” she said.
