Sealed With Deception: Fake Phones Scam Sends Harare Buyers Into Chaos
Harare residents are falling victim to an elaborate scam involving counterfeit and refurbished mobile phones disguised as brand new.
Dealers in major shopping hubs such as Gulf Complex, Zimpost Mall and Century Mall have been repackaging second-hand phones using box-sealing machines, deceiving buyers into believing they are purchasing factory-fresh devices.
Victims have reported disturbing phone defects, such as flickering screens, random auto-dialing, and unpredictable mobile data activation.
Mrs. Vanessa Chandavengerwa, who received a Samsung S23 as a Valentine’s gift, was among those affected. Within 24 hours, the screen began malfunctioning and despite returning to the store, she was given another faulty device.
It took legal intervention from her sister, a lawyer, for the shop to issue a refund.
A former employee, who spoke on condition of anonymity, revealed how dealers import empty branded boxes and insert refurbished phones, wiping data and repackaging the devices in counterfeit boxes to resemble factory-sealed phones.
According to The Herald, some of these phones originate from China and Dubai, where low-cost imports allow sellers to maximize profits.
Authorities are stepping in as the issue gains public attention.
National police spokesperson Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed that while no formal complaints had been lodged, law enforcement has launched preliminary investigations and will coordinate with consumer protection agencies to track down suspects involved in the scheme.
The Consumer Protection Commission has also acknowledged the growing complaints, with Chairperson Mrs. Respina Zinyanduko urging affected buyers to report cases, warning that repeat offenders will face legal consequences.
Consumers can file complaints through hotline numbers +263 719 176 856/861/865.
A 2020 audit by former Auditor General Mildred Chiri had already flagged Zimbabwe’s rising issue with counterfeit electronics.
Despite past warnings, the issue has worsened, with more reports surfacing of deceptive practices in Harare’s retail sector.
According to iHarare, many consumers remain unaware that they are purchasing refurbished or imitation devices disguised as new.
As authorities ramp up investigations, consumers must remain cautious—verifying warranties, demanding receipts, and checking authenticity before making purchases.
