Online Reporter
Trust Freddy-Herald Correspondent
POLICE have launched a manhunt for Tranos Taurai Muzanenhamo, who is wanted in connection with an elaborate SIM card replacement and hacking scheme that has defrauded victims of more than US$17 000 and ZiG30 million.
Muzanenhamo is accused of orchestrating a sophisticated cybercrime operation involving social engineering, identity theft and mobile money fraud.
Authorities say he used the stolen personal data of victims to manipulate mobile network systems, gaining control of their SIM cards, bank accounts and WhatsApp profiles.
In a statement, national spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi said police were appealing to the public for information that could lead to the suspect’s arrest.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may assist to locate Tranos Taurai Muzanenhamo, who is being sought in connection with several cases of fraudulent SIM replacements and hacking involving US$ 17 009,50 and ZiG 30 665 912,30.
“The suspect allegedly gathered personal information about the victims such as their names, phone numbers through various means like phishing, data breaches, or accessing public records,” said Comm Nyathi.
“He used social engineering tactics to bypass security questions.”
Using this information, Muzanenhamo would impersonate the victims and convince mobile service providers to issue him replacement SIM cards.
“Once the SIM swap had been approved, he would activate the new SIM card, resulting in the deactivation of the victim’s phone service and unauthorised access to their personal data.
After securing control of the victims’ accounts, the suspect allegedly withdrew funds, transferred money and took over WhatsApp accounts, using them to trick friends and relatives into sending more cash.
Police have urged anyone with information on Muzanenhamo’s whereabouts to contact the National Complaints Desk on (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800197, through the website www.zrp.gov.zw, or report to the nearest police station.
The latest case mirrors several incidents in which individuals have lost money through hacked WhatsApp accounts.
