The Zimbabwe Media Commission (ZMC) has issued a public warning over a scam in which an individual is posing as a ZMC accreditation agent and defrauding unsuspecting media practitioners, particularly Zimbabweans based in South Africa.
In a statement, the Commission said the scammer is demanding payments of US$70 via Mukuru while falsely claiming to process Media Accreditation Cards on behalf of journalists.
“The Zimbabwe Media Commission has been made aware of a disturbing scam in which an individual is posing as a ZMC accreditation agent and swindling unsuspecting media practitioners,” said the Commission.
ZMC clarified that it does not use agents or third parties to collect payments for media accreditation and strongly cautioned journalists against engaging with unofficial channels.
“The ZMC wishes to inform the public that it does not have any agents or representatives who collect payments for Media Accreditation Cards through any unorthodox means,” the Commission said.
The Commission condemned the scam in strong terms, describing it as an attempt to exploit vulnerable individuals seeking accreditation.
“We condemn in the strongest possible terms these despicable acts, which are designed to take advantage of vulnerable individuals.
“We urge anyone who may have been approached by these individuals or has information about these scams to come forward and report to the relevant authorities,” ZMC said.
ZMC said it has since engaged law enforcement agencies to investigate the matter and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“Meanwhile, the Commission is engaging law enforcement agencies to investigate and possibly apprehend the individual(s) behind this scam and bring them to justice,” the statement said.
The Commission urged all stakeholders to remain vigilant and to ensure they access services through legitimate channels only.
“All legitimate services related to Media Accreditation Cards are provided through official channels, including the ZMC website and offices.
“Members of the public can verify the authenticity of any communication or transaction by contacting the ZMC directly,” said the Commission.
ZMC encouraged anyone who believes they may have fallen victim to the scam, or who has information about those involved, to report the matter to the Commission or the nearest police station.
For verification and further information, the Commission said it can be contacted through its official telephone lines, WhatsApp hotline, website, or email platforms.
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Story by Jeremiah Gora
