Police Launch Manhunt For Fraudster, Swindler ‘Hazel Mafu’

Harare, Zimbabwe – The Zimbabwe Republic Police (ZRP) has launched a comprehensive appeal to the public for assistance in apprehending Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, the director of Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited. Mafu is currently sought in connection with alleged fraud cases amounting to over US$155,000 (approximately R2.8 million), which have reportedly left at least 20 individuals financially devastated.

Police reports indicate that the alleged fraudulent activities transpired between 2022 and April 2026. The scheme primarily involved vehicle importation deals that failed to materialize, despite payments being made by unsuspecting clients.

In an official statement released on May 13, 2026, authorities detailed that Mafu allegedly utilized Hezy Motors Logistics Private Limited as a front, aggressively advertising vehicle importation services across various platforms, including social media, electronic channels, and print media. The company purportedly presented itself as a reliable entity capable of sourcing and delivering imported vehicles promptly and at competitive prices.

Commissioner Paul Nyathi confirmed the intensified efforts to locate Mafu, stating, “The Zimbabwe Republic Police is appealing for information which may lead to the arrest of Hazel Silibaziso Mafu, who is being sought in connection with several cases of fraud committed between 2022 and April 2026.”

The police further elaborated that the suspect allegedly lured clients through extensive advertising campaigns specifically targeting Zimbabweans eager to acquire imported vehicles. These advertisements, according to the ZRP, contained misrepresentations regarding the company’s capacity to deliver vehicles within stipulated timeframes and at attractive prices.

Numerous clients reportedly remitted substantial sums of money to Hezy Motors for vehicle purchases and importation services. However, despite these payments, the promised vehicles were never delivered, leading to significant financial losses for the complainants.

“Consequently, several Zimbabweans reportedly engaged her and paid varying amounts of money for the purchase and importation of motor vehicles. However, after receiving payment, she allegedly failed to deliver the vehicles,” police stated.

To date, 20 complainants have officially filed reports concerning the matter, with the total reported prejudice currently standing at a staggering US$155,211.00. The ZRP has not yet disclosed any information regarding potential recoveries or whether additional victims are expected to come forward as investigations unfold.

The ZRP urges any member of the public possessing information pertinent to Mafu’s whereabouts to report to their nearest police station or directly contact the investigators. Authorities have provided contact details for the National Complaints Desk at (0242) 703631, WhatsApp 0712 800 197, and the CID Commercial Crimes Division Northern Region at (0242) 703030, as the rigorous investigation continues.