Fake Army Recruiters Arrested as ZNA Warns Job Seekers Against Recruitment Scams

The Zimbabwe National Army (ZNA) Military Police have arrested two suspected bogus recruitment agents in Harare after they allegedly posed as military officials and attempted to defraud a job seeker of US$150.

The suspects, Lyton Katedza (23) and Tadiwa Goriwoto (17), were arrested on 11 July 2026 at Market Square bus terminus in Harare’s Central Business District following an operation by the ZNA Military Police.

According to the ZNA, Katedza allegedly contacted Carey Chandipwisa (22) of Zengeza 4, Chitungwiza, claiming to be a recruiting officer who could facilitate his enlistment into the Army in exchange for a US$150 processing fee.

The victim reportedly became suspicious after being asked to pay the money and alerted the ZNA Military Police, who set up a trap that led to Katedza’s arrest. During investigations, Katedza allegedly implicated Goriwoto, who was subsequently arrested. The two suspects were later handed over to the Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) Harare Central for further investigations.

Speaking on the arrests, Colonel Hlengiwe Dube, Director of Army Public Relations, urged members of the public to be vigilant and avoid falling victim to recruitment scams.

“The ZNA further reiterates that recruitment is never conducted through third parties, middlemen, or paid facilitators, and warns that anyone demanding money in exchange for recruitment is operating illegally and should be reported to the nearest ZNA Camp or nearest police station,” said Colonel Dube.

Colonel Dube added that members of the public can also report such cases directly to the ZNA Military Police Investigations Branch on 0712 842 318 or (0242) 252 094.

“The ZNA remains committed to protecting the public from manipulation and ensuring that those who prey on desperate job seekers face the full wrath of the law,” Colonel Dube said.