By Staff Reporter
Harare – A 17-year-old boy from Zimra Park, Ruwa, was arrested and charged with fraud after allegedly defrauding a group of high school students.
The teen, whose identity remains undisclosed for ethical reasons, appeared before the Harare Magistrates Court on charges of fraud.
The incident occurred in July 2024 when the accused, posing as a member of the Junior Parliament, approached a group of high school students with a promising offer. He claimed to be recruiting for the Junior Motivators SADC Parliament program and promised the students an unforgettable experience, including a camping trip to Domboshava Resort.
To secure their participation, the accused demanded a registration fee of US$62 per student, along with an additional US$50 for the camping trip.
The students, eager to participate in the prestigious program, willingly handed over their parents’ hard-earned money.
However, after receiving the payments, the accused disappeared, leaving the students disappointed and out of pocket. The total amount defrauded was US$2,640.
The National Prosecuting Authority (NPA) confirmed the arrest in a statement released on Monday.
“A 17-year-old boy from Zimra Park, Ruwa was arraigned before the Harare Magistrates Court for defrauding high school students, the NPA said.
“Sometime in July 2024, the accused person posed as a member of the junior Parliament, promising students a chance to join the Junior Motivators SADC Parliament program.
“After receiving payments, he disappeared. Nothing wa recovered,” said NPA.
The accused person was released into the custody of his guardian.
The matter was remanded to 5 September 2024.
