Zim duo cleared of fraud

TWO Zimbabweans who were accused of being in possession of fake South African immigration stamps at Beitbridge Border Post have been cleared by the courts in Musina.

The case against Wellington Chauke and Admire Zengeni was dropped after their co-accused Tanaka Chidakwa admitted to being the sole owner of the fake stamps

The three were arrested by South Africa’s organised crime unit, the Hawks on September 12 at the border post.

Hawks spokesperson for Limpopo, Captain Matimba Maluleke yesterday said Chidakwa had been placed under the supervision of social workers.

He said a letter of non-compliance had been written against him after absconding court on Friday.

Capt Maluleke said the court was expected to make a ruling on his case based on the letter soon.

“They were arrested soon after entering South Africa via Beitbridge border post following a tip off and our officers searched them leading to the discovery of three fake immigrations stamps, which were subsequently seized, ”he said.

Capt Maluleke warned those in similar syndicates saying their days were numbered.

Under South Africa’s immigration laws, Zimbabweans are allowed a stay of not more than 90 days in that country per year.

However, immigration officers at the border are reluctant to give Zimbabweans more days in that country.

This has seen some syndicates exploiting an opportunity to award people 90 days per each single entry, for a fee.