Online Reporter
Crime Reporter
A ST Joseph’s High School teacher in Mutare was arrested yesterday for allegedly defrauding two women of a combined US$1100 by promising teaching jobs.
The accused, Melline Chirinda (40), who is employed by the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education, was arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (Zacc), and was expected to appear at Mutare Magistrates’ Court this morning facing two counts of fraud.
According to the memo of arrest, Chirinda allegedly posed as “Ms Martin” in January 2025 and told Mercylyn Gonouya (34), of Chigodora, that she could secure a teaching post for a US$700 “facilitation fee”.
Gonouya allegedly paid US$550, but Chirinda then stopped responding to her calls and left messages unread. The complainant later identified “Ms Martin” as Chirinda via Facebook.
In February 2026, she confronted Chirinda in the presence of her husband, to demand reimbursement. Chirinda allegedly said the money had been forwarded to other individuals.
After officials from the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education allegedly summoned Chirinda on May 13, 2026, she repaid the US$550.
In the second count, it is alleged that Chirinda took a further US$550 from Tafadzwa Hellen Mutseyangwa (37), a self-employed woman, from Mutare Rural Police Camp, in January 2026, after promising her a teaching job within a week.
Chirinda allegedly became evasive after receiving the money, and also failed to provide WhatsApp proof of recruitment, the memo states. That money has not been recovered.
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission was alerted on May 20, 2026.
Chirinda was arrested on May 28, and was scheduled for remand at Mutare Magistrates’ Court this morning. Both complainants were allegedly prejudiced of US$550 each.
Only one has been fully reimbursed.
