Government warns against loan impersonators

Niu Shihao and Wang Runzhi were not asked to plead when they appeared before Harare magistrate Ruth Moyo.

Sunday News Reporter

The government has clarified that it is not offering loans, offer letters, or grants, putting fraudsters posing as officials from the Ministry of Industry and Commerce on notice.

In recent weeks, several unsuspecting individuals have fallen victim to scams, losing their hard-earned money to impersonators claiming that the funds paid would cover application fees.

In a statement released yesterday, the Ministry expressed deep concern over the ongoing fraudulent activities. Scammers are deceiving individuals and businesses by falsely presenting themselves as ministry officials and promoting fake grants and loan opportunities via email and social media.

“The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has noted with great concern the persistence of fraud by scammers who are misleading unsuspecting individuals and entities. These fraudsters entice victims into applying for loans, only to leave them without their money during the alleged application process,” the statement read.

The Ministry further warned that advertisements for loans, grants, and offer letters claiming to be from them are fraudulent. “These offers are purely the work of scammers and should be ignored,” it added.

The Ministry urged anyone who receives such offers to disregard them, emphasizing that actions are being taken to disrupt the operations of these fraudsters.

“Therefore, we advise all stakeholders and citizens that we are not offering loans or grants. Anyone approached with such propositions via email, Facebook, or any other platform should not engage with these offers. Reports have been made to the relevant authorities, and measures are being implemented to halt these fraudulent activities,” the Ministry stated.

Additionally, the Ministry encouraged the public to report any suspicious communications. They can verify the authenticity of messages claiming to be from the Ministry through the Communications and Advocacy Unit at [email protected] or by calling (263) 242 791823/702733/700472, or via X Handle @Min of_IC.

The Ministry expressed regret for any inconvenience caused and appreciates the public’s vigilance and cooperation in combating these scams.