Bogus “General Talent Nyoni” busted

Itai Mazire

The Zimbabwe Military Police (ZMP) has apprehended a 42-year-old man, Hardlife Nyoni, on charges of unlawful impersonation and fraud.

Nyoni, a general hand at Mkoba Teachers College, was arrested in Harare’s Central Business District on 13 May 2026, after allegedly posing as a member of the Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) to recruit unsuspecting individuals.

He has since been handed over to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Harare Central for further management.

Colonel Hlengiwe Dube, Director Army Public Relations, commented on the swift action taken.

“The Zimbabwe Military Police on 13 May 2026 apprehended Hardlife Nyoni (42) from Waterfalls on allegations of unlawfully impersonating as a member of the ZNA),” said Colonel Dube.

The arrest followed a crucial tip-off from members of the public who reported that Nyoni was actively recruiting potential candidates for the ZNA under false pretenses.

Investigations revealed that Nyoni had been sending text messages in a WhatsApp group, operating under the alias “General Talent Nyoni,” claiming to be seeking recruits for the military.

An interested party, responding to Nyoni’s recruitment message, was asked to pay USD 100 to facilitate the enlistment process, despite lacking the necessary qualifications.

“Sensing irregularities, the potential recruit promptly alerted the Military Police. This led to a sting operation where Nyoni was lured into town and subsequently apprehended outside Harare Central Police Station during the attempted transaction,” he said.

Colonel Dube said at the time of his arrest, Nyoni was found in possession of various academic certificates and a pair of handcuffs, which he allegedly used to lend credibility to his fraudulent scheme.

“Upon questioning, Nyoni admitted to having previously defrauded another victim of USD 200 using the same deceptive tactics.

Colonel Dube further emphasized the official stance on recruitment and issued a stern warning to the public regarding such scams.

“The ZNA urges members of the public to be on the lookout for unscrupulous elements masquerading as ZNA members duping the public.

“The Organisation reiterates that it does not engage third parties in their recruitment process nor charge a fee on applicants.”

To combat these fraudulent activities, Colonel Dube also provided clear instructions for reporting suspicious activities.

“Any member who comes into contact with these criminals should come forward and report to the nearest Army Camp or Police Station. Alternatively, members of the public can contact the Zimbabwe Military Police.

The ZRP will now handle the ongoing investigation and legal proceedings against Nyoni.