A South African national has been arrested in Bulawayo, accused of orchestrating a sophisticated cross-border fraud scheme that swindled local businesses out of approximately US$17,000 (R315,000). Police confirmed the arrest of 40-year-old Johnny Herman Saaiman, who allegedly preyed on companies with promises of cheap groceries from South Africa before vanishing with their deposits. The suspect was apprehended just a day before he was scheduled to leave Zimbabwe.
According to the Chronicle, national police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi stated that Saaiman arrived in Zimbabwe in June 2025 and began targeting businesses shortly thereafter. His method was consistent, offering to procure supplies from South Africa at irresistible wholesale prices.
Commissioner Nyathi detailed the initial deception, stating:
“Saaiman initially approached one company, persuading them to pay a deposit of US$6 000 (R111 000). He later manipulated the arrangement to secure an additional US$2 000 (R37 000) by claiming he could deliver the goods within a week. Once he received the funds, he disappeared without a trace. This pattern of deception continued as he moved on to other businesses, exploiting their trust until suspicions were raised.”
A trail of broken promises and vanishing deposits
After his first successful scam, Saaiman allegedly targeted another victim. Commissioner Nyathi explained that the suspect’s boldness grew. He reportedly resurfaced at a different wholesale shop with an even larger offer.
“He was paid US$6 000 (R111 000) as a security deposit before vanishing again. On 1 August, he approached a leading confectionery shop in Bulawayo, claiming he could supply powdered sugar. They paid him a US$3 000 (R56 000) deposit, after which he again disappeared,” he said.
The confectionery shop’s payment brought the total known amount stolen to US$17,000 (R315,000). The police spokesperson emphasised that the suspect’s approach was calculated to gain quick trust and secure fast cash, leaving businesses with nothing but empty promises.
The net closes as businesses unite
The scheme began to unravel as the number of affected companies grew. Commissioner Nyathi revealed that the victims started comparing notes, which led to a significant breakthrough in the case. Their communication exposed a serial fraudster at work.
“They realised they had all fallen victim to the same scammer, prompting us to launch investigations. It became increasingly clear that heightened vigilance and proactive measures were needed to guard against fraudsters operating within the business community,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
This collaboration between the police and the aggrieved businesses directly led to Saaiman’s arrest. The arrest, however, uncovered more potential criminal activity. Police discovered untagged minerals in Saaiman’s possession, raising further questions about his operations in Zimbabwe. A significant detail also emerged about his travel plans.
“Notably, it was also revealed that Saaiman’s immigration documents were not in order. He was scheduled to leave the country just a day after his arrest,” said Commissioner Nyathi.
Police warning to businesses
In light of the incident, the police have issued a stern warning to the business community. Commissioner Nyathi urged companies to be exceptionally cautious when dealing with new partners, especially those making offers that seem too good to be true.
“I advise companies to verify the authenticity of individuals, especially those making enticing offers. This call to action is vital for fostering a secure business environment and preventing similar incidents in future,” said the police spokesperson.
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The post South African National Arrested For Defrauding Zimbabwean Businesses In Cross-Border Fraud appeared first on iHarare News.
