Harare Woman Loses Over US$11K in Fake Kombi Deal

Harare Woman Loses Over US$11K in Fake Kombi Deal

A 42-year-old woman from Waterfalls in Harare lost more than US$11,000 after falling victim to a carefully orchestrated fake vehicle sale that ended in an armed robbery.

Catherine Manonga’s ordeal began on Monday when she boarded a commuter omnibus at Zindoga Shopping Centre heading into the city centre, unaware that the journey would take a dangerous turn.

Also Read: Harare Car Dealer Duped Over US$52,000 in Fake ZIMRA Border Clearance Scam

Casual Conversation Leads to Deal

While travelling, Manonga reportedly complimented the kombi’s clean and well-maintained interior, expressing interest in owning a similar vehicle.

According to The Herald, one of the passengers quickly seized the opportunity, claiming the kombi was up for sale. After negotiating, the pair agreed on a price of US$11,000, down from an initial US$14,000.

Encouraged by the deal, Manonga asked the driver to return to Waterfalls so she could collect the money from her home.

Robbery Along Mutare Road

After securing the cash, Manonga rejoined the group and they drove towards Eastlea, allegedly to finalize the transaction at a garage.

However, the situation escalated when the vehicle reached Athlone in Msasa, near the Metro Peech turn-off along Mutare Road.

One of the men suddenly pulled out a firearm and ordered her to surrender the cash along with her cellphone. Fearing for her life, she complied before being forced out of the kombi.

The suspects then sped off, heading east along Mutare Road.

Police Issue Warning

Luckmore Chakanza confirmed the incident, stating that investigations are underway.

He warned members of the public to exercise caution when engaging in transactions with strangers, particularly involving large sums of money.

Authorities have urged residents to avoid carrying significant amounts of cash in public and to conduct such deals through safer, verified channels.

The total value stolen in the incident is estimated at US$11,700.


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