Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata
The Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) has arrested Tonderayi Makoni, an official from the Financial Intelligence Unit (FIU), and Wisdom Mutami, on allegations of fraud and extortion involving US$2 500.
ZACC spokesperson Ms Simiso Mlevu confirmed the arrests in a statement and said the two acted in connivance with a third suspect, Clemence Nyamima, who is still at large.
The suspects allegedly demanded money from a Bulawayo-based businessman, claiming they could facilitate the unfreezing of his bank accounts which had been frozen by the FIU.
“In May 2025, Mutami approached the complainant and claimed that his relative, Makoni, could assist in unfreezing the frozen accounts. He demanded a payment of US$3 000, which was later negotiated to US$2 500,” said Ms Mlevu.
The complainant made an initial payment of US$520 to Nyamima’s mobile wallet on Makoni’s instructions, with the remaining US$2 000 later paid in cash.
“Despite the payments, the accounts remained frozen and the suspects became evasive, prompting the complainant to report the matter to ZACC,” Ms Mlevu said.
Makoni was apprehended in Harare, while Mutami was arrested in Bulawayo on July 23, 2025.
Mutami is expected to appear today at Tredgold Magistrates Court for initial remand, while Makoni will appear at the Harare Magistrates Court.
Ms Mlevu said investigations are ongoing and efforts are being made to apprehend Nyamima.
The Commission has reiterated its commitment to fighting corruption across all institutions, including regulatory and oversight bodies.
Online Reporter