Zimra 'agent' arrested

A 28-year-old Harare woman, Faith Mukaro, appeared in court on Tuesday, charged with fraud after allegedly misrepresenting herself as a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (Zimra) agent and swindling a fellow resident of US$3,000 in a botched motor vehicle acquisition deal.

Mukaro appeared before Magistrate Patricia Kamwanda, who remanded her in custody for a bail application, which will be heard today.

The complainant, 29-year-old Eddtress Chadehumbe, claims that on September 24, 2024, Mukaro approached her and falsely presented herself as a Zimra employee. Mukaro allegedly told Chadehumbe that she was selling a Toyota Probox that had been stationed at the Chirundu Border Post.

Under the pretense of buying the vehicle, Mukaro allegedly paid US$3,000 to Chadehumbe, agreeing to pay the remaining US$470 upon delivery of the car. However, after receiving the money, Mukaro reportedly became evasive and stopped responding to Chadehumbe's inquiries.

Concerned by Mukaro's sudden disappearance, Chadehumbe filed a police report, leading to Mukaro's arrest.

The case highlights ongoing concerns over fraud involving fake vehicle transactions, which have become a common issue for Zimbabweans. Mukaro's actions have sparked public outrage, especially given her position as a purported government employee.