A 42-year-old Harare man accused of masquerading as a Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) officer and defrauding job seekers through fake recruitment schemes has been arrested.
Hardlife Nyoni of Waterfalls was apprehended by the Zimbabwe Military Police on Wednesday in Harare’s central business district following a tip-off from members of the public alleging that he was illegally recruiting candidates on behalf of the army.
Nyoni, who is employed as a general hand at Mkoba Teachers College, allegedly posed as a senior army officer using the alias “General Talent Nyoni” in WhatsApp groups, where he claimed to be facilitating recruitment into the ZNA.
According to a statement issued by the Army Public Relations Directorate, the suspect allegedly demanded US$100 from one prospective recruit, claiming he could secure his enlistment despite the applicant not meeting the required qualifications.
“The suspect allegedly sent a text message in a WhatsApp group under the alias ‘General Talent Nyoni’, claiming he was looking for potential candidates for recruitment into the ZNA,” part of the statement read.
The prospective recruit reportedly became suspicious after noticing irregularities in the recruitment process and alerted the Military Police, who then organised a sting operation.
“Sensing abnormalities in the recruitment process, the potential recruit alerted the Military Police and lured the suspect into town,” the ZNA said.
Nyoni was arrested outside Harare Central Police Station while allegedly attempting to collect the money from the complainant.
At the time of his arrest, the suspect was allegedly found in possession of various academic certificates and a pair of handcuffs, which investigators believe he used “to authenticate his modus operandi”.
The ZNA further revealed that upon questioning, Nyoni admitted to using the same trick on another victim whom he allegedly defrauded of US$200.
He was later handed over to ZRP Harare Central for further investigations.
Meanwhile, the ZNA has urged members of the public to remain vigilant against fraudsters posing as serving soldiers.
“The Organisation reiterates that it does not engage third parties in their recruitment process nor charge a fee on applicants,” said Director Army Public Relations, Colonel Hlengiwe Dube.
ZNA also encouraged members of the public to report suspected scammers to the nearest army camp or police station.
