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Gibson Mhaka
AN alleged swindler who preyed on motorists, primarily those visiting Mpilo Central Hospital in Bulawayo, posing as an explosives dealer received mob justice when he was apprehended after a second attempt to swindle the same victim.
The scammer who identified himself as Nkosilathi Khumalo cheated death at the hands of an angry mob on Saturday afternoon in a daylight scamming gone wrong. According to a witness, the victim was coming from Mpilo Hospital when he was accosted by Khumalo.
He introduced himself in an attempt to con the victim, but the seemingly alert victim positively identified him and grabbed him by the collar before he bundled him into his car. He was then driven to town where he was assaulted by a mob. A video in B-Metro’s possession shows Khumalo confessing to swindling numerous people using the same method.
Narrating the incident, a witness said before Khumalo was caught, he would approach his victims with a story about needing someone to transport his explosives to Maphisa.
“He targeted motorists, mostly those visiting Mpilo Hospital, claiming to be in the business of selling explosives. He approached his victims with a story about needing someone to transport explosives supposedly brought from outside town by an ambulance to Maphisa. He would offer something like US$600, for the short trip, emphasising the danger of the items to justify the high price. He would suggest traveling at night, further enhancing his tricks.
“If the victim agreed, he’d say he needed money to pay the ambulance driver. He’d then pretend to make a call to his accomplice telling him that the explosives had arrived. The accomplice would then act frustrated, claiming they’d find another transporter if the victim was hesitating,” the witness said.
The witness further said this would convince the victim of the urgency and legitimacy of the deal.
“The scammer would then request a smaller amount, like US$150, supposedly for the ambulance driver, promising to repay the victim upon reaching Maphisa. After receiving the money from the victim, he would then disappear from the scene,” the witness said.
Online Reporter