ZACC And ZIMRA Seize Over 500 Cars From People Who Abused Civil Servants Motor Vehicle Rebate Scheme

Zimbabwe Authorities Seize 500 Cars In Major Rebate Scheme Scandal

In a stunning crackdown, over 500 vehicles valued at nearly US$2 million (approx. R36 million) have been seized from individuals who allegedly abused a government motor vehicle rebate scheme designed for civil servants. The massive recovery is the result of a joint sting operation by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) and the Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA), targeting the illicit exploitation of the duty-free import programme.

The revelation came to light during a high-profile ceremony in Harare, where ZIMRA officials publicly signed integrity pledges. The event, attended by top brass from both organisations, signalled a major institutional push towards ethical conduct and inter-agency cooperation.

Crackdown On Widespread Abuse

Detailing the operation’s success, ZACC Chairperson Michael Reza revealed the investigation was launched last year. He commended the collaborative effort that led to the significant vehicle recovery.

He stated:

“In June 2023, the ZACC launched a joint investigation with ZIMRA to combat the abuse of the Civil Servants Motor Vehicle Rebate Scheme. Since the launch of that operation, thousands of cases of suspected abuse of the Civil Servants Vehicle Import Scheme have been reported, and over 500 vehicles valued close to US$2 million (approx. R36 million) have been recovered by ZACC.”

Mr Reza issued a stern warning that this was just the beginning, with more seizures expected. He confirmed that the legal process was now underway, stating, “Also, hundreds of dockets have been submitted to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPAZ).”

A Public Commitment To Integrity

The scheme at the centre of the scandal was a government incentive allowing civil servants with a decade or more of service to import cars without paying duty. A key condition forbids beneficiaries from selling the vehicle for five years without written permission from ZIMRA. According to the authorities, this rule was flagrantly violated by car dealers and complicit civil servants.

Following the signing ceremony, ZIMRA Board Chair Anthony Mandiwanza spoke of the pledge as a profound commitment. He emphasised the organisation’s dedication to rooting out corruption.

He proclaimed:

“Today, we do more than just affix our signatures; we proclaim unequivocally and publicly our unwavering commitment to the principles of probity, transparency, and accountability—principles that are the very bedrock of a reputable and high-performing institution. To sign this pledge as ZIMRA is to make an emphatic declaration that corruption is anathema to our values.”

Mr Mandiwanza’s sentiments were echoed by the public nature of the commitment, designed to cement a new chapter of transparency for the revenue authority as their joint operation with ZACC continues to unfold.