Police arrest three in Shurugwi lodge raid over major cyber fraud syndicate
n By Dumisani Ndlovu n nn n SHURUGWI – Zimbabwean Republic Police (ZRP) apprehended three suspects on Friday linked to a widespread cyber fraud operation that leveraged identity theft and illegal SIM card manipulation to steal thousands of
anostrofy By Dumisani Ndlovu
SHURUGWI – Zimbabwean Republic Police (ZRP) apprehended three suspects on Friday linked to a widespread cyber fraud operation that leveraged identity theft and illegal SIM card manipulation to steal thousands of dollars from victims across the country.
The arrests took place on Friday, October 31, at Leillano Lodges in Shurugwi, where authorities detained Tranos Taurai Muzanenhamo (27), Rumbidzai Tsongora (24), and Bradwell Shangwa (25).
The trio is currently connected to at least 29 documented cases of cyber-related fraud, primarily affecting residents and businesses in major cities including Harare and Bulawayo.
Police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the operation and detailed the sophisticated methods the syndicate allegedly employed to siphon funds from unsuspecting victims.
“The individuals are accused of harvesting personal data through phishing schemes and exploiting data breaches captured from public records. This stolen information was critical in their next step: impersonating victims to secure replacement SIM cards,” Commissioner Nyathi stated.
He explained that securing a replacement SIM card effectively gave the fraudsters control over the victim’s identity.
“Once the SIM card replacement was processed, they gained immediate access to the victims’ mobile money wallets, bank accounts, and messaging profiles,” Commissioner Nyathi continued. “This allowed them to transfer funds directly or solicit money from the victims’ associates under false pretenses.”
The scale of the operation’s alleged financial damage is estimated at USD 17,009.50 and ZWG 30,665,912.30.
A search conducted on the suspects’ vehicle, a Toyota Mark X, yielded significant evidence consistent with the alleged criminal activities. Authorities recovered multiple registered and unregistered SIM cards, several counterfeit identity documents, assorted bank cards, cellphones, a Starlink internet device, and a pair of handcuffs.
The suspects face multiple charges related to fraud and identity theft under the country’s cyber security laws. Commissioner Nyathi confirmed that investigations are ongoing to identify additional victims and determine if the syndicate involved other individuals.
