Tinotenda Hove – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has issued a stern warning to members of the public to be cautious when engaging in online transactions, particularly those involving the purchase of goods and services such as tractors from neighbouring countries.

In a statement released this week, the police said they are aware of criminal syndicates using the names of prominent individuals and government officials to deceive unsuspecting citizens into making fake transactions, often involving large sums of money in South African Rands.

“The ZRP warns the public against responding to online scams or purported transactions to acquire goods and services, which include tractors from neighbouring countries,” the statement reads.

The police further advised the public to exercise due diligence and verify all business transactions with the Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe (RBZ), the Police, and other relevant authorities before making any financial commitments.

“The public should verify with RBZ, Police and relevant authorities before engaging in purported online business transactions,” ZRP emphasized.

Authorities say they are intensifying investigations to identify and bring to justice the perpetrators behind these fraudulent schemes. Citizens have been urged to report any suspicious online dealings to the nearest police station.