NEW: Social media lies cost businessman US$13 500

Online Reporter

A businessman lost US$13,500 to a mob incited by a false social media claim suggesting he had a portion of the US$4 million stolen from the Ecobank Bulawayo branch.

The crowd forcibly entered his residence, in Seke, Chitungwiza claiming to be looking for the stolen funds, and subsequently absconded with the cash.

The rowdy elements are said to have damaged property while recovering the money.

Police have since dismissed the social media reports about the recovery of the Ecobank money as false.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police dismisses viral social media posts on the alleged discovery of part of US$4 million Bulawayo bank robbery heist at a certain house in Unit F, Seke, Chitungwiza.

“The allegations are false and should be dismissed with the contempt they deserve,” said police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi in a statement.

He warned the public against abusing social media to peddle lies as doing so encouraged criminality.

“The Zimbabwe Republic Police warns the public, especially criminal elements against abuse of social media platforms to engage in criminal activities as revealed by this incident.

“The Police have established that after the viral social media post, the public forced entry into the local businessman’s house, damaged property and some took away US$13 500.00.

“The businessman runs a hardware in Harare Central Business District and was away at the time of the incident,” he said.

Added Comm Nyathi: “The public did not find part of the US$4 million heist as alleged on the social media platforms.

“The public is urged to be cautious and avoid being reactionary to false social media messages. Meanwhile, the Zimbabwe Republic Police is conducting investigations into the unlawful entry and theft of US$13 500.”