Online Reporter
B-Metro Reporter
A SMOOTH-TALKING fraudster who posed as a Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) officer and Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) official has been caught red-handed trying to milk more money from a desperate housing stands complainant.
Edmond Nzombe (50), who claimed to represent the Southern Africa Regional Anti-Corruption Organisation (SARACO), is now behind bars after being cornered in a sting operation in May 2025.
Nzombe’s scheme began in October 2024 when he allegedly approached Martha Mutamburi of Mikando Housing Development Trust, promising to help her recover repossessed housing stands.
“He said he worked with ZACC and ZRP,” said a source close to the case. “He demanded US$5 000 to fix everything but only got US$1000 at first.”
Nzombe later returned, hungry for more.
“Last week, he came back saying he needed more money to ‘push’ the case. That’s when we set the trap,” said an investigating officer.
The unsuspecting conman accepted US$200 from the complainant, unaware that he was being watched. Moments later, he was pounced on by ZRP and ZACC officers working together in a joint operation.
“He walked right into our hands,” added the officer.
The ZRP and ZACC have issued a stern warning to fraudsters using their names to fleece the public.
“We will take decisive action against anyone extorting or defrauding citizens while pretending to be part of our institutions,” said national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi.
Simiso Mlevu, ZACC spokesperson, echoed the message: “We urge the public to report all acts of corruption – no one is above the law.”
Nzombe is expected to appear in court soon.
