Car Dealer Arrested Over US$26,000 Fake Importation Scam
Police have arrested a Harare car dealer accused of duping multiple victims in a series of fake vehicle importation deals, as authorities warn of a growing wave of fraud cases being driven through social media platforms.
Also Read: Bulawayo Woman Loses US$16K in Facebook Car Scam
Social media scams on the rise
The Criminal Investigations Department (CID) says criminals are increasingly using online platforms to lure unsuspecting members of the public into fake car importation and property investment schemes.
CID spokesperson Detective Inspector Rachel Muteweri said investigators had recorded several related cases, prompting renewed warnings to the public to verify all transactions before making payments.
Suspect posed as vehicle import agent
One of the arrested suspects, Caution Madiro Chikonamombe (31) of Hatfield, Harare, allegedly presented himself as a legitimate agent offering car importation services.
According to police, Chikonamombe is linked to three separate cases involving fraudulent vehicle deals.
In October last year, he allegedly received US$9,000 from a complainant who wanted to import a Honda Grace. The victim was later told the vehicle had been shipped, but it never arrived.
Multiple victims defrauded
On January 29 this year, the suspect allegedly struck again, this time receiving US$5,000 from another complainant as a deposit for vehicle importation.
The victim later discovered the arrangement was fake after repeated delays and failure to deliver the car.
In a third case, police say Chikonamombe prejudiced another complainant of US$12,100 under similar false pretences.
He has since been arrested and appeared before the Harare Magistrates’ Court.
Wider property scam network uncovered
In a separate development, CID Commercial Crimes Division also arrested Desmond Rutsito (42) of Madokero, Harare, and Leeroy Manyange (28) of Zengeza, Chitungwiza, in connection with fraudulent land deals.
The duo is accused of selling non-existent residential stands in Southerton, Aspindale, and Glenroy Township.
Police say victims in the land scam collectively lost about US$151,000.
Police issue public warning
Authorities have urged members of the public to exercise extreme caution when engaging in online transactions involving vehicles, property, or investments.
Detective Inspector Muteweri said all suspicious dealings should be reported immediately to the nearest police station to help curb rising cases of fraud.
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