Wilbert Nyarugwe has been arrested by the Zimbabwe Anti-Corruption Commission (ZACC) for allegedly defrauding a local businessman of US$10,000.
Nyarugwe, posing as a ZANU PF Central Committee member, promised to use his supposed influence to resolve a Zimbabwe Revenue Authority (ZIMRA) seizure case involving the businessman’s bus and goods. However, after receiving the payment, Nyarugwe disappeared, leaving the businessman with a hefty bill from ZIMRA.
According to reports, the businessman, Douglas Muraza, had his bus and goods seized by ZIMRA in Masvingo in October 2024. Desperate to resolve the issue, Muraza turned to Nyarugwe, who claimed to have connections with ZIMRA Commissioner General, Mrs. Regina Chinamasa.
Nyarugwe’s deceitful plan began to unravel when Muraza received an official demand from ZIMRA for payment of ZWG893,529.59 in duty, fines, interest, and storage charges. Realizing he had been duped, Muraza reported the matter to ZACC, leading to Nyarugwe’s arrest.
Nyarugwe was found in possession of fraudulent ZANU PF cards, highlighting the growing trend of individuals exploiting political connections for personal gain. He is expected to appear at the Harare Magistrates Court on January 22, 2025, for initial remand.
