Harare, (New Ziana) — Police are appealing to the public for information that could lead to the arrest of Tranos Taurai Muzanenhamo, who is wanted in connection with a series of fraudulent SIM card replacements and hacking activities involving substantial sums of money.
In a statement, national police spokesman, Paul Nyathi said Muzanenhamo is believed to have defrauded victims of over USD 17,009.50 and ZWG 30,665,912.30 through a sophisticated scam.
“The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may assist to locate Tranos Taurai Muzanenhamo who is being sought in connection with several cases of fraudulent SIM replacements and hacking involving USD 17 009. 50 and ZWG 30 665 912. 30. “The suspect allegedly gathered personal information about the victims such as their names, phone numbers through various means like phishing, data breaches, or accessing public records,” said Nyathi.
These included victims’ names, phone numbers, and other sensitive details. Once in possession of this information, Nyathi said Muzanenhamo allegedly used social engineering tactics to bypass security measures and impersonate his victims.
Posing as the victim, he would contact mobile service providers, requesting a SIM card replacement. After the replacement was authorized, he would activate the new SIM, thereby deactivating the victim’s phone service and gaining unauthorized access to their personal accounts.
Using this access, Muzanenhamo reportedly withdrew significant amounts of money from the victims’ mobile wallets and bank accounts via digital banking channels. In some instances, he also took control of the victims’ WhatsApp accounts, where he would request money from their contacts under false pretences, Nyathi said.
He appealed to anyone with information on Muzanenhamo’s whereabouts or involvement in these fraudulent activities to come forward. Tips can be submitted confidentially via the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 70 3631, by WhatsApp at 0712 800197, through the ZRP website at www.zrp.gov.zw, or at any nearest police station.
This case highlights the growing dangers of digital fraud and serves as a reminder to the public to remain vigilant and protect their personal information in an increasingly connected world.
New Ziana
