Police Name 11 Suspects in Major EcoCash Fraud Bust, Recover US$22,000
Police Name 11 Suspects in Major EcoCash Fraud Bust, Recover US$22,000 – Zimbabwe Republic Police have released the names of 11 suspects arrested in connection with a sophisticated EcoCash fraud syndicate that operated across the country between 2025 and February 2026, targeting unsuspecting mobile money users through fake promotions.
According to police, the suspects allegedly impersonated Econet Zimbabwe and circulated fraudulent links promising free data bundles.
Victims who clicked on the links were tricked into sharing their One-Time Passwords (OTPs), allowing the syndicate to gain illegal access to EcoCash wallets and siphon funds into accounts under their control.
The suspects arrested are Mpho Ruzwidzo (22), Ishmael Muzanenhamo, Moses Shingirai Chawatama (24), Usher Forester Mubaiwa (26), Panashe Wesley Gonzo (22), Tinashe Gonzo (24), Eddington Leeroy Mazonde (21), Calvin Takudzwa Masiyandaita (23), Shawn Goodmore Chikangaidze (22), Billy Zawe (21) and Dilan Macheka (22).
All are unemployed and are based in Chitungwiza and surrounding areas.
Police say the breakthrough came on 4 February 2026 after CID Homicide Harare detectives used a “follow-the-money” approach to track the first two suspects.
Their arrest led to the recovery of Econet-linked mobile phones, multiple SIM cards, US$600 in cash and household property including beds, sofas, televisions, a fridge, a stove, a wardrobe, plates and blankets, all believed to have been bought using proceeds of crime.
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Further investigations revealed that the suspects had also purchased vehicles, including a Nissan Note, while another car, a Toyota Spade allegedly used for InDrive operations, is yet to be recovered.
Some of the stolen funds were reportedly invested in cryptocurrency, while one SIM card holding illicit funds was blocked before withdrawals could be made.
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On 5 February 2026, police arrested the remaining suspects at their respective residences, leading to the seizure of dozens of Buddie lines, high-end smartphones, tablets, laptops and additional cash amounts in United States dollars.
The total value of cash and property recovered is estimated at US$22,000.
Police investigations are continuing, with authorities working to trace unrecovered assets and identify all victims affected by the fraud.
