Police in Bulawayo have warned businesses and residents about a suspected cash-swap scam involving criminals travelling in a silver Toyota Fortuner and using counterfeit United States dollar notes.
Bulawayo police spokesperson Inspector Nomalanga Msebele said the suspects were targeting shopkeepers and traders through a deceptive method during cash transactions.
“The suspects are reportedly using a deceptive method of operation whereby they purchase goods using a genuine US$100 note. After receiving the goods and change, they then manipulate the situation to recover the genuine note they initially tendered and replace it with a counterfeit one, thereby defrauding shopkeepers and traders,” she said.
Inspector Msebele urged business operators, particularly those handling large volumes of cash, to exercise increased caution.
“Members of the public, especially business operators, are urged to exercise extra caution when handling cash transactions and dealing with such people who pretend to be in need of their services but in actual fact are fraudsters and scammers. Always verify the authenticity of US dollar notes and ensure that once a transaction is completed, no further exchanges of the original note are entertained,” she added.
Police have encouraged residents to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious individuals or vehicles matching the description to the nearest police station.
Reports can also be made through the Bulawayo Police Complaints Desk on 0789 401 080 or the ZRP Bulawayo Operations number 02922-73547.
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