Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has refuted a fake press statement circulating on social media claiming that controversial businessman Wicknell Chivayo is wanted by the police for questioning over fraud and other criminal activities.

In an official statement issued on Sunday, the ZRP said the viral document did not originate from its communication channels and urged the public to disregard it as false and misleading.

“Reference is made to a fake press statement that has gone viral on social media platforms. The press statement did not originate from the official ZRP communication channels. Members of the public are therefore advised to disregard it as false and misleading,” read part of the police statement.

The fake statement falsely alleged that Chivayo was being sought by the police in connection with unspecified fraud and criminal offences — claims that the ZRP has completely disowned.

“The ZRP is aware of individuals and groups responsible for circulating the fake press statement and appropriate investigations are underway,” the statement added.

Police also reminded citizens to rely only on verified sources for accurate information.

“The public is urged to rely only on information released through the official ZRP platforms and verified media sources,” said the police.

The latest warning follows a surge in fake news and impersonation of government agencies on social media, with authorities vowing to take stern action against those behind the spread of false information.