Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
Zimpapers Reporter
Two men already facing dozens of fraud charges have had their case file balloon to 101 counts as police probe deeper into a sophisticated and protracted scam targeting online sellers, including farmers and small business owners.
Agrippa Chivenge (42) and Audious Rungano (32) were initially arrested on December 17, 2025, facing 48 counts of fraud. Their charges have now more than doubled following a detailed police investigation into their elaborate criminal enterprise.
According to Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Criminal Investigations Department (CID) spokesperson, Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, the pair operated between March 2021 and their arrest in December 2025.
Their method, she said, was deliberate and calculated.
“The accused approached their victims, who advertised products on social media platforms, posing as genuine customers,” said Det-Insp Muteweri.
To bolster their appearance of legitimacy, the pair used high-end hired vehicles, specifically Toyota Hilux and Toyota Fortuner models, fitted with fake registration plates−AFT7973, AET3904 and AFZ8507.
Their scam hinged on sleight-of-hand during payment.
“Throughout the transactions, they created confusion, ultimately duping unsuspecting sellers by paying with counterfeit notes,” Det-Insp Muteweri said.
The duo’s signature tactic involved bundling counterfeit US dollar notes, but leaving a single genuine note visible on top to deceive the seller into believing the entire payment was legitimate. Police investigations revealed they would often replace genuine cash with bundles of bond notes during the confusion.
Following their arrest, authorities recovered a total of 543 counterfeit US dollar notes, a seizure that directly led to the increase in their charges.
The total value of goods and cash stolen in their spree amounts to a staggering US$2 000 080. To date, only US$1 700 has been recovered.
Chivenge and Rungano have since appeared before the Mbare Magistrates Court and remain in custody on routine remand as the state prepares its case.
The Zimbabwe Republic Police has issued a fresh warning to the public, urging caution during transactions, especially those initiated through social media.
The police urged citizens to remain vigilant and to verify payments thoroughly to avoid falling victim to similar sophisticated schemes.
