Harare woman charged with trafficking victims to fight in Russia

A Harare woman has appeared in court facing human trafficking charges after allegedly luring victims to Russia under the guise of well-paying jobs, only for them to be forced into military combat in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war.

Resnath Chingombe appeared before regional magistrate Mr Francis Mapfumo and was remanded in custody to April 17 after the State opposed bail.

Prosecutors allege that between January and April 2026, Chingombe worked with a Russian accomplice, identified only as “Curious” and still at large, to recruit eight victims for alleged labour opportunities abroad.

The victims were reportedly told they would work as truck drivers and firefighters under attractive salaries and conditions. The court heard that she arranged accommodation for them in Harare and assisted with visa processing, flight bookings and travel documentation.

Upon arrival in Russia, it is alleged the victims were met by the accomplice, who confiscated their passports before they were subjected to a brief firearms training programme and later deployed to the front lines of the Russia-Ukraine conflict instead of the promised civilian jobs.

The alleged scheme only came to light after some victims managed to communicate their ordeal to relatives in Zimbabwe, who alerted the Zimbabwe Republic Police.

Authorities say efforts are underway through the Department of Social Welfare to repatriate affected Zimbabweans who remain stranded, while investigations continue.

Reports of African nationals being deceived into joining the conflict have surfaced across several countries. In Zimbabwe, government officials previously confirmed that citizens were among those killed after being drawn into the war under false pretences, while diplomatic engagements are ongoing to secure the return of those still alive.

Chingombe's arrest follows growing concern over international recruitment scams targeting vulnerable job seekers with promises of high-paying overseas employment.