Fake Game Ranger Jailed for 3 Years Over ZimParks Recruitment Scam

Fake Game Ranger Jailed for 3 Years Over ZimParks Recruitment Scam

A 31-year-old man from Karoi has been sentenced to an effective 36 months in prison. This comes after he was found guilty of running a fraudulent recruitment scheme while posing as a Zimbabwe Parks and Wildlife Management Authority (ZimParks) game ranger.

William Clive Makayi was convicted by the Karoi Magistrates’ Court on six counts of fraud and one count of impersonating a public official.

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Posed as ZimParks Officer to Lure Victims

According to the National Prosecuting Authority of Zimbabwe (NPA), Makayi falsely presented himself as a ZimParks ranger between June 2023 and October 2025.

He allegedly promised unsuspecting victims employment opportunities, claiming they would be recruited and trained at Lake Chivero and Marongora National Park.

To bolster his deception, Makayi reportedly used fake authority, including uniforms and convincing recruitment narratives, to gain the trust of job seekers.

Thousands Lost Across Several Districts

Investigators revealed that the accused targeted victims from several areas, including Magunje, Karoi, Zvimba, Chinhoyi and Harare. He demanded payments for items such as uniforms, trunks and training expenses, directing victims to send money through EcoCash accounts registered in third-party names, including that of his wife.

As a result of the scheme, victims collectively lost more than US$10,000.

Arrest Followed Tip-Off

Makayi’s activities came to an end after police received a tip-off and conducted a search at his residence. During the operation, officers recovered ZimParks uniforms and related apparel, which led to his arrest and subsequent prosecution.

Public Urged to Be Vigilant

Following the conviction, authorities have warned the public to remain cautious when seeking employment, stressing that recruitment into government institutions is never conducted through middlemen or requires payment.

“Members of the public are urged to exercise caution. Recruitment into government institutions is never done through middlemen or payment demands. Always verify information through official channels,” read part of the statement.

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