Police hunt woman over US$155k vehicle import scam

THE Zimbabwe Republic Police has launched a nationwide manhunt for Hazel Silibaziso Mafu in connection with an alleged vehicle importation fraud involving more than US$155,000.

Mafu is being sought over what police described as "several cases of fraud committed between 2022 and April 2026".

According to police, she is the director of Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited, a company allegedly involved in importing motor vehicles on behalf of clients.

In a statement, police said the suspect extensively advertised vehicle importation services through social media and other marketing platforms, promising clients that vehicles would be sourced and delivered within agreed timelines at competitive prices.

"The suspect, who is the director of Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited, a company purportedly engaged in the business of importing motor vehicles on behalf of clients, extensively marketed and advertised vehicle importation services through various platforms, including social media, and electronic and print media," police said.

Authorities allege that several clients paid varying amounts of money for the purchase and importation of vehicles that were never delivered.

"Through these advertisements, the suspect misrepresented that she had the capacity to source and deliver motor vehicles within specified timeframes at competitive prices.

"Consequently, several Zimbabweans reportedly engaged her and paid varying amounts of money for the purchase and importation of motor vehicles. However, after receiving payment, she allegedly failed to deliver the vehicles," the police statement added.

The ZRP said at least 20 complainants have so far reported losses linked to the alleged scam.

Police have appealed to members of the public with information that may assist in locating the suspect to report to the nearest police station or contact the National Complaints Desk or the CID Commercial Crimes Division.