Online Reporter
Arron Nyamayaro
Zimpapers Reporter
Two men already facing 48 fraud charges have now seen the prosecution list rise to 101 counts, involving more than US$2 million, as police probe deeper into a sophisticated and protracted scam targeting online sellers, including farmers and small business owners.
The pair allegedly created confusion during transactions, paying with bundles of counterfeit banknotes topped with a single genuine note.
Agrippa Chivenge (42) and Audious Rungano (32) were initially arrested on December 17 last year facing 48 counts of fraud.
Their charges have now more than doubled following a detailed police investigation into their elaborate criminal enterprise.
According to CID spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri, the pair operated between March 2021 and their arrest in December last year.
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 duo 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 explained.
The duo’s signature tactic involved bundling counterfeit US dollar notes, 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 fake 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.
Citizens have been advised to remain vigilant and to verify payments thoroughly to avoid falling victim to similar sophisticated schemes.
