Online Reporter
Trust Freddy
Zimpapers Correspondent
GOVERNMENT – OWNED telecommunications firm, TelOne, has raised the alarm over a burgeoning black market for its Long-Term Evolution (LTE) SIM cards, with unscrupulous dealers reportedly fleecing desperate subscribers of up to US$120 for lines that officially cost only US$2.
The surge in illicit trade follows an increased demand for the high-speed data lines, particularly the “non-geolocked” versions, which allow users to access the internet across various locations without being restricted to a specific base station.
In a statement on Monday, TelOne warned that it would move to prosecute individuals and entities found distributing the SIM cards without legal authorisation.
“We would like to remind our valued clients that TelOne LTE SIM cards are only purchased from official TelOne outlets. Our LTE SIM cards are available for just US$2 at all authorised locations,” reads part of the statement.
“Please be cautious and avoid buying from unofficial outlets because you may end up facing financial prejudice.”
The firm further clarified that it would seek legal recourse against those involved in the illicit trade.
“Additionally, any individual or entity selling TelOne LTE sim cards without authorisation will be prosecuted.”
Investigations by The Herald revealed a disparity between official prices and the street value of the cards.
While TelOne maintains a standard retail price of US$2 at all authorised outlets, speculators are capitalising on supply gaps to charge between US$80 and US$120.
One social media advertisement used a plea for sympathy to move the overpriced stock:
“TelOne line available for sale, my kid is sick and I do not have any other means to find cash at the moment. $100 not geographically locked,” the post reads.
Other dealers are attempting to legitimise their operations through seasonal “promotions.”
One individual, identifying as Tariro Mandiro, circulated messages offering “Easter Promotions” for non-geolocked Zol and TelOne Blaze lines, alongside mobile MIFI routers.
The Herald crew also successfully established a paper trail by initiating an EcoCash transfer to one of the advertised lines, which identified Mt…Nkomo as a key figure.
This trail led further to a WhatsApp group dubbed ‘BluetechPvtLtd,’ being used as a primary marketplace for the lines.
