adminRay Bande Weekender Reporter
A CLIQUE of conmen understood to be operating from Harare are pouncing on unsuspecting poultry and piggery prospective entrepreneurs in Mutare lying that they will supply chicks and pigs at cheaper rates on condition of apayment upfront.
Trading as Hybrid Poultry and Piggery (HPP), suppliers of pigs and chicks, the conmen allegedly claim that if one pays $140, he or she will be entitled to 100 chicks.
Apart from the 100 chicks that would be delivered to the client soon after payment, HPP using their “own” resources will also construct a pigsty or fowl run at the client’s premises as part of the package.
The $140 is, however, demanded before any services or goods are supplied.
For $75, one would get 50 chicks, while one has to part ways with $45 for 25 chicks.
All transactions purportedly include construction of a pigsty or fowl run at the client’s premises.
As if that was enough, the “suppliers” also offer a ready market in that they promise to buy the chickens at about $4 per bird after four weeks.
A Mutare resident, Nisbert Kasipo, who fell victim to the conmen after he paid $140 about three weeks ago, but never got anything warned others of the unscrupulous gang that moves around in a kombi.
“I think people should be made aware of these conmen. They came to my place aboard a kombi. They were three ‘gentlemen’ who were dressed in smart casual.
“I listened to them as they told me of their enticing offer. I paid $140 with the hope that I would get 100 chicks and that they would also come and construct the fowl run at my place the next day.
“That was three weeks ago, but they are giving me excuses.
“They gave me a form that I filled, but that was that.
“They answer my phone calls, but they have proved to be conmen. I wouldn’t want this to happen to any other person,” he said.
When this reporter, disguised as a prospective client, phoned at 0779 860 586, a man who identified himself only as Mutasa confirmed that they offer the seemingly enticing deal.
He was quick to demand that this reporter send him the money via mobile money transfer agent Ecocash and then later text address and phone number as well as national identity number.
He said he was in Harare and his team would be coming to Mutare with my chicks as well as other orders.
Contacted for comment, acting Manicaland provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Muzondiwa Clean, said they were still to receive reports of a similar nature before he referred all questions to deputy provincial police spokesperson, Assistant Inspector Luxson Chananda who was not reachable.
Online Reporter